CYCLISTS in the Fareham area can saddle up for two scenic bike rides in the coming weeks.

The sixth annual Ride Around the Harbours takes place on Sunday, June 8, while Fareham Borough Council's Sea and Scenery ride follows a week later. Both events are free.

The 32-mile Ride Around the Harbours is organised by Fare-ham Borough Council and other harbour councils in partnership with the British Heart Foundation.

The Fareham ride starts at Bath Lane Recreation Ground (10am) and the first leg is an eight-mile pedal through Stubbington to Gosport.

The entire circuit takes hundreds of cyclists to Southsea, Hay-ling Island and Portsdown Hill, with free ferry crossings across Portsmouth and Langstone harbours.

Fareham council is providing light refreshments and maps, while Halfords, Park Gate, is offering mechanical support to riders.

The Sea and Scenery ride on June 15 offers cycle rides from eight to 30 miles on quiet roads and bridleways in the borough.

Riders can start any time between 10am and noon from The Tithe Barn, Mill Lane, Titchfield, and choose from three routes to either Warsash, Wickham or the coast.

The council's executive member for leisure, Councillor Connie Hockley, said: "These two free events offer cyclists the chance to visit some of the most beautiful parts of the borough and enjoy some great coastal and rural scenery."