16 April 2015, Yorkshire is justifiably proud of its delicious local produce and its food producers are once again rising to the challenge of keeping the pedals turning at this year’s annual Carter Jonas Yorkshire Pedalthon - Yorkshire’s “Tour de France legacy” ride for the business community.

Cyclists entering the event on Friday 8 May can look forward to a locally sourced and seasonal high-energy menu provided by food and drink producers from across the region.

Theakstons, Wensleydale Creamery, Heck Food, Yorkshire Provender, Brymor Ice Cream, Yorkshire Crisps and SK Biscuits are just some of the Yorkshire companies who will be helping to refuel more than 300 cyclists taking part in the Pedalthon on Friday 8 May. YAA Water, Scheckters Organic Energy, Cawston Press, Walkers, Fyffes and Eat Natural are also supporting the event.

Riders, who will be raising money for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance and LandAid which supports disadvantaged and vulnerable youngsters in the UK, will find high-energy snacks at well-stocked food stations along the route. The historic Hovingham Estate and Byland Abbey near Coxwold will both be throwing open their gates for riders. Hovingham Hall, which usually only opens for one month in June, has been the home of the Worsley family for 450 years. 70 and 90 mile riders will be able to pause and enjoy the best Yorkshire produce in this magnificent setting. Easingwold’s Galtres Centre is the final food stop on the ride.

Yorkshire cycling legend Brian Robinson who is lending his support to the ride offers this advice to riders: “It is important to keep your energy levels up on the day so a good breakfast of porridge or an omelette, followed by breaks at the feed stations championing Yorkshire produce should really help to keep the riders going.”

A much deserved hog roast - as well as vegetarian options and refreshments - will welcome riders upon completion of the event at Ripley Castle.

David Aspland, partner at Carter Jonas said: “Yorkshire is a rich and diverse county in many things– its people, places, heritage and, of course, its glorious food. We’re delighted at the support we’ve had for this event from all involved and it is a real reflection of their pride in, and enthusiasm for, Yorkshire and of course such good causes.

Simon Theakston Executive Director at Theakston said: "We are delighted to be supporting Carter Jonas in their tremendous efforts to raise essential funds for two excellent charities. As one of the UK’s leading Property Companies it is great that they have chosen Yorkshire to host their second Carter Jonas Yorkshire Pedalthon. Perhaps against my better judgement, I have been persuaded to take part in the challenge but at least the prospect of a delicious pint of Yorkshire ale at the finish line will provide the necessary incentive! Some of the County’s finest pubs are on the route and so could be called upon to provide rest for the weary traveller!

Sandra Bell, marketing manager of Wensleydale Creamery, said: “We were delighted to be able to support the Yorkshire Pedalthon with our iconic Yorkshire Wensleydale cheese which is lovingly handcrafted in the heart of the Dales. In the spirit of last year’s Grand Depart, the ride is a celebration of everything Yorkshire - from our countryside and our businesses to our food and our people. We wish everyone ‘bonne chance’ in the event and know our award-winning cheese will help spur them on to the finishing line.”

Starting and ending at Ripley Castle, riders will have the choice of a 90 mile challenge ride (which includes White Horse Bank, one of the country’s top 100 cycle climbs), 70 mile scenic ride or 40 mile social ride.

Last year’s event attracted more than 67 business teams from across the region and Carter Jonas hopes to exceed that this year.

The Carter Jonas Yorkshire Pedalthon is open to both individuals and corporate teams, with individual entry costing £150 and teams of four costing £600 each - 20% of the entry fee goes to the charities.

For further information and details on how to sign up please click here.