Last Sunday some 370 cyclists geared up for the annual KM Big Bike Ride, raising a huge £17,000 for good causes in the process.

Staged at Betteshanger Park, near Deal, participants were offered the choice of a 50K countryside or 100K coastal routes.

Riders raised vital money for charitable organisations including Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance, and the East Kent Mercury's charity of the year Pegasus Playscheme.

During the ride, cyclists were treated to the perfect pit stop thanks to key partners The Rose Inn at Wickhambreaux which provided the fitting venue to refresh and prepare for the remainder of the challenge event.

Cyclists who took part are able to claim their professional sportive photographs courtesy of Sportive Photo by visiting www.sportivephoto.com and visiting ‘Last 7 Days Events’. From here you will find ‘KM Big Bike Ride’. All photos will be saved under individual rider numbers supplied on the day, unless your number is obscured in the image. These pictures will be saved under number ‘999’.

Simon Dolby, chief executive of the KM Charity Team which organises the event, said: “Despite the weather testing us once again, the KM Big Bike Ride was a big success and has confirmed itself as one of the major events in the fundraising calendar. Our feedback from riders was extremely positive, with many praising the service provided by The Rose Inn during the day. We are thankful for their involvement and support in the ride."

The KM Big Bike Ride is supported by Vattenfall, Locks of Sandwich Cycles, The Freewheel Pub and Cycling Cafe, and The Rose Inn.

Companies interested in sponsoring next year’s KM Big Bike Ride event should contact Mr Dolby on 07989 164 752 or email sdolby@thekmgroup.co.uk

To receive advance news on KM Charity Team events and the chance to win a pair of Eurostar tickets, sign up to the KM Link e-newsletter by visiting www.kmcharityteam.co.uk