OLYMPIC gold medallists James Cracknell and Rebecca Romero will join Paralympic gold medallists Sarah Storey and Jody Cundy as they lead 600 cyclists through Okehampton on June 19, heading for Land's End as part of the inaugural Deloitte Ride Across Britain.

The ride is a 1,000-mile, nine-day cycle event from John O'Groats to Land's End which begins on June 12, with the aim of raising £1 million over the next four years for ParalympicsGB.

West Devon residents will be able to cheer on the riders as they go through Okehampton and head towards Cornwall on the old A30.

At the end of this stage the cyclists will return to a pre-installed base camp in Launceston to rest, relax and refuel for the next day.

And residents can also get involved in the race. James Cracknell is calling on the local community to volunteer their help as the riders pass through.

Whether it is to line the streets and cheer the cyclists on, or get involved with the event operations, there are volunteering opportunities for everyone.

James, co-founder of Threshold Sports, the company behind the ride said: 'I am very much looking forward to the event.

'We have chosen the route because of the wonderful scenery and I can't wait to cycle through Okehampton.

'There will undoubtedly be highs and lows along the way but with so many people taking part it is going to be fantastic working as a team and helping each other through the difficult times.

'I encourage anybody interested to volunteer and get involved as we'll need all the help we can get along the route to raise as much money as possible and make the event a success.'

If you would like to volunteer and be part of this sporting event, email [email protected]">[email protected]

Heather Hancock of Deloitte said: 'We are very proud that over 100 Deloitte partners, people and clients will be taking part in this challenge and they will all be raising money for ParalympicsGB. 

'We will be fully supporting all the riders along their journey in what will be a tough challenge and celebrating their achievements at the finish line.'

ParalympicsGB chairman Tim Reddish, himself a retired Paralympian, will be riding with his son Paul on a tandem bike.

He said: 'I am absolutely delighted that I will be taking part in this event. It will certainly be a challenge but I know it will be a brilliant experience and, more importantly, I also know how valuable the money that will be raised for ParalympicsGB is.'

The support being offered to ParalympicsGB through Deloitte Ride Across Britain will make an enormous difference to the preparations ParalympicsGB can offer the British team ahead of 2012.

The money raised will help to ensure that everything possible is done to help the athletes achieve their lifetime's best performances in London and make the nation proud.