Ref. 30780-2SWINDON CANCER APPEAL: Five hundred and forty legs, many bound in impossibly tight Lycra, have pedalled across miles of Wiltshire countryside to raise money for cancer relief.

The Macmillan Castle Mountain Bike Ride followed the Ridgeway in a loop of the Downs along some of England's oldest roads, and included a visit to the ancient peak at Barbury Castle.

Participants chose between a 10, 15 or 25-mile ride, with most opting for the longer route.

The cyclists set off from Croft Road Sports Centre at 10am yesterday.

Organiser Jill Greenaway said 270 riders had taken part, slightly fewer than last year, when 300 people raised more than £7,700.

"The Race for Life and D-Day service probably had an effect on the turnout," said Jill.

"But it's gone very well and despite the heat most people opted for the longest route. They're very dedicated."

The quickest riders completed the ride in just over two hours, while others took more than double that time.

As well as the serious-looking cyclists, fully kitted out in the finest quality Lycra, some people were just along for a leisurely ride.

Speaking before it began, Lynda Mills and Susan Chubb, landladies of the Cricketers Arms in Emlyn Square, said their aim was to finish their 25-mile route with all 13 of their group intact.

"We're hoping to raise £500, enjoy the views and have some fun along the way," said Lynda.

And first time rider Stacey Jackson, 18, from Nythe, said her friends had dragged her along but she was looking forward to taking part.

Yesterday's ride has already raised nearly £2,000 for the Swindon Cancer Appeal in registration fees, and lots more is expected once sponsorship money has been collected. One rider alone has been pledged more than £900.

The Appeal aims to raise £600,000 for Macmillan Cancer Relief, and has so far reached £375,000.

The cash will pay for two specialist Macmillan nurses and a consultant in palliative care, who will support people living with cancer in Swindon and Marlborough.

Graziella Campisano, appeals manager of Macmillan Cancer Relief, said: "The bike ride is an important part of the fundraising calendar.

"Everyone's enjoyed the glorious scenery and it's a fun way of raising money for a good cause.

"I'm sure many of the riders will come back and do it again next year."

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Andy Tate