STAFF from Southend's branch of the NSPCC are calling on people to take part in the charity's annual Big Bike Ride.

From June 29 to July 1, people from all over the country will take part in the ride to help raise money for the charity, which supports vulnerable children.

The ride in Southend will take place on Saturday, June 30, at 11am. It will start from Uncle Tom's Cabin, on the seafront in Shoebury to the Sealife Centre and back again.

Organiser Lucy Lock, who is the charity's appeals manager for Essex, said: "Last year, thousands of people took part in hundreds of Big Bike Ride events and raised much-needed funds for the NSPCC.

"It would be great to make the 2007 Big Bike Ride even more successful."

To take part, call 01702 480499 or e-mail llock@nspcc.org.uk