TWO hundred cyclists raced around the hills of Pendle in the name of charity yesterday.

The rain held off as riders, young and old, whizzed around the Steven Burke Sports Hub, in Nelson, to raise money for Pendleside Hospice.

Meanwhile the ‘Wiggle Pedal Pendle’ saw cyclists complete 95 kilometre, 65 kilometre and 25 kilometre courses, travelling through Pendle, Craven and part of the Yorkshire Dales.

At the sports hub youth riders sped around the purpose built track.

Along with the biking, there was a climbing wall as well as an opportunity for youngsters to hop on a bike for the first time and to learn about road safety.

Mark Parkinson, project development officer for Pennine Events, which organised the charity race, said it went ahead without a hitch.

He said: “The riders loved the courses, they were very hilly and many commented on the beautiful scenery.

“It’s great to get lots of people involved in cycling and there was lots of charity riders here raising money for the hospice.

“It’s had a great atmosphere and everyone has been in high spirits, even when they finished the race.”

Modified bikes were brought to the event to encourage those with disabilities to have a go at cycling.

Pendle Council’s Trisha Wilson, the event’s organiser, said: “Today was about raising awareness of cycling and what can be done at the sports hub.

“We want it to be the centre of cycling in Pendle and we want everyone to come and have a go.

“There are many benefits of cycling, it can improve your health and it can be a very leisurely experience.

“The hub is a fantastic place to come and take part in biking. I hope we have convinced lots of people to take it up.

“The public can use the speed track when its not booked up and I would definitely encourage them to do so.”