WHAT better place to launch a charity bike ride which aims to top £1m in donations, than aboard a luxury £10m yacht.

Sunseeker rose to the occasion at its Poole base as this year’s Macmillan Dorset Bike Ride was launched to raise funds for Macmillan Cancer Support.

The Daily Echo-backed sponsored rides through the scenic Dorset countryside take place on Sunday July 1 and people are being urged to sign up.

Last year more than 900 riders took part in the event which starts and ends at Corfe Mullen.

“We hope this will be another significant year for us as we aim to reach the £1m mark since the founding of the event, that’s why we decided to launch our appeal on board a £1m Sunseeker yacht,” said ride organiser Peter Smith-Nicholls.

“In 2011 cyclists rose to the challenge of our 100+ campaign and raised over £100,000 for Mac- millan in its centenary year, it would be great to match that sum in 2012,” he said.

Also on board the 115 Predator yacht was Chris Elms, Sunseeker’s top fund raiser last year with £1,138 and Wayne Moore, operations director for Sunseeker International.

“Sunseeker are delighted to be associated as official sponsor with the Dorset Bike Ride again this year,” said Wayne.

“Everybody knows someone who has been affected by cancer and the Macmillan Cancer Support team do a wonderful job to help sufferers and their families in many ways.

“The ride gives an opportunity for anybody to take part in a great day and to raise money for a very important charity.”

The event has six different circular courses to appeal to all – 10 miles, 20, 38, 48, 60 and the challenging 100-mile route.

There will be a new cycling jersey supported by the sponsors and free refreshments along the routes.

There are a number of ways to enter: online at macmillanbikeride.co.uk or contact Macmillan Dorset Bike Ride, PO Box 1432 Broadstone BH18 9YE, telephone 01202 601705 for entry forms or visit Primera Sports at Charminster on Saturday April 28 for the Sign Up at Primera day – and receive a free water bottle.