A popular event, aimed at inspiring women and girls to get cycling, will return to a coastal town for its third year.

This year's Women on Wheels (WoW) ride will return to Southwold next Sunday, July 22, as it is organised by the Rotary Club of Southwold and District, alongside its new sponsor – luxury holiday cottage letting agency So Southwold.

WOW events are mass participation female-only bike rides around Suffolk that put a strong emphasis on the fun and friendly aspects of cycling.

Three routes, suiting all abilities, have been designed for the Southwold event, which takes place over seven miles, 18 miles and 30 miles.

They will all start from the William Godell Sports Pavilion with the seven mile route heading to Walberswick, the 18-mile route heading to Shadingfield Fox and the 30-mile route heading to Sotterley.

Refreshments are available en route at the Shadingfield Fox, with the event open to anyone aged eight upwards – although eight to 16-year olds must be accompanied by an adult.

There will be a range of attractions taking place at the William Godell Sports Pavilion for those cheering on their friends and family including games, breakfast barbecue, a bar, tea, coffee and cake. There is also a raffle to win a ladies and girls bike and cycling goodies.

James Reeder, Suffolk County Council's cabinet member for health, said: 'We're hoping that as Southwold is such a popular tourist town that both residents and visitors alike will take part in this ride and enjoy the day'.

Cathy Ryan, secretary of Southwold and District Rotary, added: 'We are thrilled to bring Women on Wheels back to Southwold. It has been such a hit over the last couple of years and we hope that even more women and girls will get involved in 2018. Last year we had 68 riders and our aim is to beat that!'

George Bradley, So Southwold general manager, said: 'We are thrilled to be sponsoring Women on Wheels, it's a fantastic event with a real sense of community. Many of our team will be taking part in the event and we can't wait to get our helmets ready for the big day!'.

To sign up for the event visit www.wowsuffolk.org.uk/wow-southwold/If you would like to have a stall at William Godell Sports Pavilion contact Southwold and District Rotary via www.southwoldrotary.co.uk/