HUNDREDS of cyclists set off from Watchet Marina on a 54 mile fundraiser to help raise money for the air ambulance last weekend.

A large crowd of spectators gathered to cheer on the 600+ cyclists taking part in the 8th annual Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge on Sunday morning (May 13).

The event, which is not a race, involves a challenging 54-mile ride from Watchet Harbour, Somerset, to West Bay.

Last year's event raised more than £74,000 for the life-saving charity and organisers hoped to top that this year.

The challenge is very popular with riders and often is full booked within days.

Bill Sivewright, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Chief Executive Officer said: “Our Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge is a fantastic occasion and the atmosphere is incredible.

He added: “We are extremely proud of this event; it is the only event that we organise ourselves.

"Every year it seems to get better and better and that is mainly due to the wonderful team of volunteers, members of the public and local businesses who help us with marshalling and keeping the cyclists safe."