A VIBRANT swarm of cyclists set off on the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge this morning.

The sun was shining and there was a cool sea breeze as more than 600 entrants started the ride, with Town Crier David Milton getting the proceedings underway.

The cyclists take on a tricky 54 mile ride, finishing at West Bay in Dorset in the afternoon, taking in some of Exmoor's most stunning scenery along the way.

Last year's event raised £64,000 for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and this year the event is thought to have matched that, if not bettered it.

The Team O' Tumblers hail from Dorset and are big contributors to the race.

Richard Fry, one of the team's 36 members, said: "We are made up members from various hunts.

"Our team name comes from the fact we are prone to tumble from our horses from time to time and having the Air Ambulance is invaluable.

"It is a fantastic event for a fantastic cause and we are delighted to have raised £21,500 in sponsorship this year. It is our way of giving something back."

Organiser Bill Sivewright usually behind the scenes but was also taking part this year.

"It just seems to get better every year. The weather is ideal today, the preparation for the event has been the best yet, we filled the 600 available places in just three days and we are on target to match our £64,000 fundraising from last year," Mr Sivewright said.

"“It’s a fantastic occasion and the atmosphere is incredible.  I’m sure it will be an extremely emotional day all round and the aches and pains will definitely be worthwhile. "

Watchet Town Crier David Milton kept spirits up among the competitors and audience, saying: "We do a lot of marvellous and wacky things in this country and this is one of the best. Just remember there is a pint and a pasty waiting for you at the other end!"

Kate James from the Porter Dodson solicitors team said the whole group were looking forward to it.

"We have a range of experience in the team, it is my first time but the wind is behind us up the hills so that should help," she said.

As well as individual sponsorship of the cyclists, the Charity has set up two other ways in which donations can be made in support of the event.  These can be made online by visiting: www.dsairambulance.org.uk or by mobile phone by texting: COAS16 £5 to 70070.