FORMER Newport Gwent Dragons star Gareth Cooper will take part in a mammoth cycling challenge next month in aid of Prostate Cymru.

The Five Valleys Sportive will see individuals take on a route of either 54 miles or 72 miles through Welsh towns such as Neath, Port Talbot and Margam Park on September 13.

The event has been going for three years and having had 350 participants last year, organisers hope that 500 others will follow in the former scrum-half’s footsteps.

Andy Thomas, chairman for Prostate Cymru, said: “We are thrilled to have Gareth, along with other rugby players Gwyn Evans and Dafydd James, take part in the Five Valleys cycle ride.

“The Five Valleys Sportive has always been popular and to have three former rugby players get involved is fantastic.

“It is for a worthy cause and will help raise awareness of the charity."

“Last year, we had Olympic gold medallist Nicole Cooke so to have more notable athletes take part this year is great and will hopefully encourage more to sign up for years to come.”

Entry for the Five Valleys Sportive is £35 and individuals will have the opportunity to raise money for Prostate Cymru. To enter the Five Valleys Sportive, visit http://www.thefivevalleys.co.uk/enter-event.