Cyclists travelled from across the south coast to take part in a charity bike ride which has raised more than £20,000 for charity.

This is the tenth year in the saddle for the Rotary Dorset Bike Ride which saw cyclists of all ages opt to tackle one of five routes around Dorset ranging in distance from 22 to 108 miles, all of which began at Longthorns Campsite near Bovington on Sunday, October 9.

Event organiser, Richard Burnett said: “We had a perfect day for our event. Riding through the spectacular Dorset countryside in the October sunshine was a pleasure for the scores of cyclists who took part.

Bridport and Lyme Regis News: Cancer survivors Tim Wilson, 81, and Cherry Wilson, 76, share a kiss at the end of their ride. Picture: Rotary Club of Westbourne

“Riders from nine years old to well into their eighties took part, choosing routes from 22 to 108 miles, which were tailored for families to competitive cyclists.

“I am delighted to report that we raised in excess of £20,000 for Cancer Research UK”

The finisher’s medals were presented by Taylor Cane-Richardson from Cancer Research UK, she said: “Congratulations to all the participants for their inspiring rides and for raising much-needed funds for cancer research.”

This event has raised money for several charities over the past ten years, including an impressive £300,000 for Cancer Research UK.

Participants included Dan Jenkins from Poole, who smashed the 55-mile challenge with his twin sons, teenagers, Jasper, and Joseph. Dan said: “Last year we achieved the 35-mile route at this event – I am proud that we went one better this time.”

Bridport and Lyme Regis News: Jenkin Boys with father and his twin sons and Westbourne Rotary President and representative from Cancer Research Uk at the finish line. Picture: Rotary Club of Westbourne

Poole engineering business, Norco, based at Holton Heath, fielded an impressive 17 riders. Owner, Mark Northey said: “I am delighted to say that Norco’s riders raised £4,475 for cancer research at this event. Many thanks to our friends, families, customers, and suppliers for their generosity.”

Bridport and Lyme Regis News: Norco team with their big cheque donation. Picture: Rotary Club of Westbourne

Paul Brown, who travelled down from Sutton Coldfield in the West Midlands to complete the 70-mile course said: “It was worth the journey to Wareham to spend the morning cycling through delightful Dorset scenery.”

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Organiser Richard Burnett added: “I would like to thank my colleagues from local Rotary clubs, Cancer Research UK and all the additional volunteers, who helped with catering and marshalling.

“Together we are making this event a classic for the cycling community.”

Bridport and Lyme Regis News: Peaky Blinder's Paul Brown (centre left) rode the seventy mile route and is pictured with with Rotary Club members Lynda Henty (left), Sue Burnett (centre right) and main organiser Richard Burnett (right). Picture: Rotary Club of Westbourne