HUNDREDS of cyclists took part in an epic charity challenge on Sunday to raise funds for Cancer Research UK.

More than 650 people donned their lycra to participate in the Rotary Dorset Bike Ride, taking on a range of distances from 10 to 100 miles.

See all our pictures from the Rotary Dorset Bike Ride in a gallery 

Among those lining up at the start line were Swanage couple Jason and Trish Clark, who were aiming to complete 75 miles on their 26-year-old tandem bike.

Jason said: “This goes shooting down the hills and slowly up them, so we’ll see how we get on today.

“This bike was made for us many years ago – it’s seen four children in its lifespan, all of whom still ride bikes today.”

He said he and his wife had decided to take part in the sportive simply because they love cycling.

“It’s a good opportunity to do a ride with lots of other people too,” he said.

Tom Pattinson-Smith, of Bridport, decided to take on the 100-mile ride with friends James Horton and Matthew Norris.

He acted as an ambassador for the race two years ago after recovering from peripheral T-cell lymphoma, a type of cancer which affects immune cells.

“I’m in remission now after suffering with cancer for about six years,” he said.

“Cancer Research UK is a great charity to support. I’m really looking forward to starting now.”

Victoria and John Blackburn, who live in Poole, had more to celebrate than just the completion of their 50-mile cycle.

“It’s our 19th wedding anniversary today,” said Victoria.

“He bought me this bike as a Christmas present. I’m excited to be here and to get started today.”

Sandra Levett, of Yeovil group Get Pedalling, had another reason to enjoy the day.

When asked why she had decided to take part, she said: “I’m doing this to celebrate health.

“I’m a cancer survivor. For me, today is all about being outside and enjoying it.”

Organiser David King said: “It’s going to be a great day.

“There’s a distance here for everyone. It’s the first year we’ve done the 100-mile stretch, and about 100 riders are taking part in that, so that’s brilliant.”

He said the sportive grows each year.

“We started out with 350 people, and last year we had 500,” he said.

“This time, it’s more than 650, and people are still registering. It’s fantastic.”