Nearly 200 cyclists take part in Rotary Bikeathon

Nearly 200 cyclists of all ages and experience saddled up for the annual Rotary Bikeathon on Sunday.

The event, organised by the Rotary Club of Maidenhead, offered a choice of three routes catering for every level of cyclist, from families with young children up to serious club riders looking for a real challenge.

All the routes started and finished from an event base camp set up at Maidenhead Office Park in Littlewick Green.

A 15-mile (24km) family route, which was largely flat, and a 35-mile (50km) medium route followed quiet country roads around the Walthams, Shurlock Row, Binfield and Winkfield Row.

A tough 62-mile (100km) route took participants out through Wargrave, Henley and Christmas Common then back to Maidenhead via Sonning, Twyford and Winkfield and included some challenging climbs.

The event raised an estimated £1,700, with Maidenhead charity Alzheimers Dementia Support being the main beneficiary. Everyone who completed a route received a commemorative medal on their return.

Organiser Sean Egan said: “The Bikeathon isn’t a race and the three routes ensure the event is open to every cyclist whatever their age or ability.

"The short route saw mums and dads taking part alongside their children or with them in child seats, the middle route was popular with a whole swathe of regular cyclists, while the 100km attracted some very experienced club riders.

“Everyone had a great time and the feedback was fantastic. Thanks to everyone who took part and to our small army of volunteers who ensured everything went smoothly from registration at the event base through to manning refreshment stations along each route.”