Surrey residents will be asked whether they want RideLondon to carry on in the county from 2021 onwards.

As part of the legacy of the 2012 Olympics, Surrey County Council approved the cycling event, originally called the Marathon on Wheels.

About £2.5 million has been given to sports and recreational charities in the county since the first event in 2013.

Councillors agreed at a cabinet meeting for the ride to continue until 2020, and for consultation to be carried out on whether it should take place until 2026.

Speaking at the meeting, council leader David Hodge said RideLondon had been a “hugely successful legacy” of the Olympics.

He said: “We will see the Olympic legacy for another year until 2020, and we will recognise and clearly understand some residents have concerns about RideLondon, which is why we will hold consultations about any future decision for 2021 onwards.”

The 2017 event's route began in central London, and went through Kingston, Molesey, Walton and Weybridge before heading further out into Surrey and returning to London via Leatherhead and Esher.

Cllr Tim Oliver, who will be taking part in this year’s ride raising money for Shooting Star Chase children’s hospice, said in support of the event: “I think all of us who drive cars around Surrey at the weekend get frustrated with cyclists, and all of us who cycle at the weekend get frustrated with the cars and this is one of the few events where you can cycle safely and enjoy the whole experience of cycling through Surrey and London.

“There are the side benefits of promoting health and wellbeing, which is something to be pursued and recommended.

“My experience is that it generates a fantastic community spirit. A lot of people have street parties and gatherings.

“It’s quite right to consult on the extension of the event but I would hope people would see the wider benefits and support the consultation until 2026.”

The £2.5 million given through the London Marathon Trust has gone to youth projects, gymnastic clubs, playground refurbishments, cricket clubs, BMX clubs and boat clubs, among others.

It is thought about 2,500 Surrey residents take part in the event each year.

In a previous round of consultation, the council received 417 resident contacts with: 125 for the event continuing , 187 against, 125 wanting a change of route and 14 complaining about cycling in general or not engaging with the questions.

Details of the new consultation will be published later this year.