HUNDREDS took to two wheels for the 6th annual Rotary Dorset Bike Ride.

The event, which is in aid of Cancer Research UK, was treated to perfect conditions this morning in Purbeck as riders set off throughout the morning.

The cycle features eight different routes, ranging from 10 miles up to 100 miles, offering riders young and old, novice and experienced, the opportunity to take part.

Rotary groups in the area joined forces to organise the event, under the stewardship of lead organiser David King.

"We're just under 600 people this year which is still good," he said.

"It's slightly less than previous years but that is probably due to the Ironman over at Weymouth and another bike ride in Hampshire.

"Cancer Research is a fantastic charity that we're raising for.

"People can raise money for other charities, we don't inhibit them from doing so if they can raise sponsorship.

"All the entry free goes to Cancer Research thanks to our sponsors who cover the full costs of the events.

"Bloor homes gives £1,000, Harvest Fine Foods provide all the food for the riders and Longthorns provide us with this fantastic venue.

"They haven't taken any campers this weekend because of the event so they have donated a massive amount.

"We've got eight routes and it is quite complicated to get them all off at the correct time and following their route but all routes are signposted, with volunteer marshals out to guide them.

"We've got 50 volunteers in total and without them the event wouldn't be able to take place.

"The event is being run from the Westbourne Rotary Club, but several others are all working together on the ride."

The 103-mile route took riders on a full tour of Purbeck, with an initial journey south to Lulworth, before heading east to Corfe.

From there, riders made the long trip up to Shaftesbury and then headed back down into Wareham.

Nicola Dunford, fundraising manager at Cancer Research UK, said: "The size of the event and the fact that it is run completely voluntarily make it so special.

"It's an absolutely huge event for Dorset and raises so much money for Cancer Research UK.

"All of our funds come from volunteer led events like this cycle being organised by David King and the Rotary, which is hopefully looking to raise around £50,000.

"That money will go directly to our research scientists who look for new cures and therapies for all 200 different types of cancer.

"I've been lucky enough to be on the meet and greet this morning as everyone comes in and also on the finish as they come in to hand them a medal and perhaps the odd sticking plaster."