Kent’s leafy byways were whirring with the sounds of cyclists this weekend.

More than 1,200 riders took to the roads to support Pilgrims Hospice.

The cycle challenge saw fundraisers pedal any one of four routes including a 100-mile cross county ride to visit hospices in Thanet, Canterbury and Ashford.

Pilgrims events fundraiser Robert Grew said: “We were really delighted to see so many of our regular cyclists along with many new Pilgrims supporters on Sunday.

"The weather was extremely kind to us, giving our riders plenty of opportunities to enjoy the beautiful Kent countryside.

"We had more than 1,000 registrations in the lead up to the big day, and then to see so many more register on the day was brilliant.”

£35,000 was raised from the registration fees alone and the total is expected to rise with sponsor money still to be counted.

Riders were supported by motorbike marshals, lots of signs and regular refreshment stops along the way.

Free massages to ease aching muscles, bike maintenance at each hospice site and plenty of supporters to cheer them on were in abundance during the challenge.

The hospice’s fundraising team works with an army of volunteers to ensure the day runs smoothly, as well as the generosity of sponsors and cycle partners providing services on the day.

Mr Grew said: “The whole community really got behind us again for the cycle challenge and we cannot thank everyone enough.”