THE Santini Cotswold Autumn Classic returns this weekend, with 600 riders taking part in the event on Sunday, October 4.

With a choice of three routes, 55km, 100km, 160km, riders will cycle through the Cotswold countryside in the event held in the tradition of the best European cyclosportive’s and Gran Fondo’s.

All riders will start from Cirencester College with those on the longer two routes starting in groups of 50 from 8am, and those on the shorter route moving off in groups of 25 from 9am.

The 160km route goes from Cirencester up to Winchcombe and Chipping Campden, then down through Stow-on-the-Wold, Lechlade-on-Thames, Highworth, Purton, Minety and Kemble before arriving back in Cirencester.

Riders on the 100km route, with go out towards Bourton-on-the-Water before turning down through Lechlade-on-Thames, moving through Highworth, Purton, Minety and Kemble on their way back to the start point.

The shorter, 55km, route goes from Cirencester round to Kempsford, through Down Ampney and South Cerney before circling back to Cirencester.

Along the routes there will be well-stocked food stations, where riders can stop and refuel before continuing with their ride.

Performance Cycles will also be on hand to offer mechanical support to the participants, although organisers warn that any problems with bikes should be dealt with before arriving at the event.

To ensure the safety of participants broom wagons will be in operation. These will travel along the routes to become the event cut off point. Any riders passed by the wagon will be offered a lift and asked to hand over their timing chips.

The event finish line will close at 6.30pm.

For more information on the event visit www.veloevents.co.uk