Dozens of cyclists mounted their bikes in aid of a Northwood hospice at the weekend.

A total of 85 people pedalled the 35-mile course, which ran through the scenic country lanes of Amersham, Bovingdon, Hemel Hempstead and Croxley Green, on Sunday.

The event was organised by the Michael Sobell Hospice, based at Mount Vernon Hospital, where the route started and finished.

Refreshments were provided for participants and police were also on-hand to mark people’s bikes for free.

Trish Mule, events and community fundraiser at the hospice, said: "We have had great feedback from the event and we hope to beat last year’s total."

Eddie Hodges, who was one of the riders, said: "This was my sixth year at this event. This year I didn’t know what to expect as the route was much more challenging. It was a great route with lots of hills, the signage and the marshalling were excellent and I couldn’t fault the organisation of the event."

David Gwynne-Evans added: "The bike ride was really well organised, all the riders were well looked after both at the start and the finish.  The route was fantastic and very challenging and it’s a great way to support your local charity."

The hospice does not charge for the care it provides, but it relies heavily on charitable donations and runs many fundraisers througout the year.

Organisers are still collating the amount raised from this year’s bike ride.