Hundreds of cyclists took to the streets to raise money for Demelza Hospice Care for Children at its first Pedal for a Purpose bike ride.

A total of 336 people signed up for the event, which set off from the hospice in Rook Lane, Bobbing, on Sunday, April 19.

There were three routes for participants to choose from – a 17-mile family route, 52-mile classic ride and a 103-mile course.

It was organised in partnership with Swale-based Quick Release Cycling Club.

The club was formed in February 2013, and after some members took part in the Demelza 101 challenge last year – cycling from Sittingbourne to Paris – they decided to do something else for the charity.

Everyone who took part was presented with a medal on completion and the children were all given a dotty wristband.

So far £9,000 has been raised, with more money still to be counted.

Events coordinator Emma Austen said: “It was a fantastic event with a brilliant atmosphere, and we are overwhelmed at the positive feedback we’ve had about it.

“It was so popular we will be running it again in 2016.

“I would also like to thank the Quick Release Cycling Club for helping to organise it, MK Cycling which provided mechanical support, Dole Fresh who donated bananas, Asda Old Kent Road for a voucher donation so we could buy snacks for the riders, and of course all the volunteers and staff who helped on the day.”