MORE than 200 riders took part in a hugely popular 24 hour bike ride last weekend.

The Crudwell 24 Hour Bike Ride, that has been going for more than 25 years, took place on June 23 and 24.

There were 212 riders taking part in this year’s event in 22 teams, as they cycled around a seven mile country lane course.

Team Freeride achieved the most team sponsorship with Harry’s Heroes in third. Second place is still unknown.

Tetbury Velos completed the most laps, with Mercedez Benz Stars finishing just behind in second place.

Each team has only one main aim, to keep one bike on the road for the entire duration, and combined with the blistering heat, it is no mean feat.

Teams are varied, ranging from a cycling club team to some teams from primary schools nearby.

Riders raise money for a wide range of charities and also help to raise funds for the Crudwell Village Hall.

Charities this year included Naomi House Children’s Hospice, Wiltshire Air Ambulance and Cancer Research UK.

Last year, over £14,000 was raised and it is hoped that this can be beaten this year, with the total not yet confirmed.

A hard working committee and numerous volunteers who assisted with marshalling and other tasks supported the event.

This year’s event was said to be massively successful, with people attending commenting on ‘the great community feel of the event’ and ‘how well the event was organised’ and ‘riding in the middle of the night is the best bit’.

Special praise should be given to Annie Smith, who is retiring from the committee after being the driving force behind the event for many years.

‘An absolute legend’ was one accolade that was used to describe Annie.

If you want to get involved and organise a team for next year’s 24 hour bike ride go to crudwellbikeride.co.uk or #crudwell24