Mark Cavendish is training a team of Mark Cavendishes for the Prudential RideLondon-Surrey 100 cycling challenge.

The group of eight amateur cyclists, each called Mark Cavendish, is being transformed into a squad ready to take on the 100 mile ride.

They have been supplied with all the gear, and had a boot camp with the Manx Missile.

Team Cavendish, formed by RideLondon sponsors Amstel Bier, will take part in the event on July 30.

Only two of the riders were born with the name, and the other six have changed theirs by deed poll to participate in the ride.

Amstel Team Cavendish coach, Mark Cavendish, said: “It’s quite a surreal experience to be training a team of amateur cyclists all called Mark Cavendish. I don’t think I’ve ever said my own name out loud so much before.

“I’ve really enjoyed training my Amstel team and they’re all looking in great shape. I’m now looking forward to seeing them riding together.”

The route will begin at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in London, and passes through Richmond Park, Kingston, Bushy Park, Molesey, Walton and Weybridge before passing around Surrey and back through Wimbledon and Putney to central London, with a total distance of 100 miles.

Ifeoma Dozie, brand director at Amstel, said: “What better way to symbolise the launch of our partnership than to work with the Mark Cavendish on the formation of a unique cycling team for Prudential RideLondon? Through the guidance of the British cycling legend, our team of everyday Mark Cavendishes will have much more in common than just a name by the time Prudential RideLondon has finished.”