A MASS cycling event attracting thousands of riders to the New Forest has begun this morning.

The Wiggle New Forest 100 Sportive event started early this morning at Matchams, near Ringwood with cyclists touring around the New Forest.

The two day event attracts huge numbers of visitors to the National Park, although some residents are opposed to such activities being held in the Forest.

On Sunday, another cycle event, the CTC Wessex Cycling Gridiron, is expected to bring more riders to the New Forest.

The route of the Gridiron was amended this week, to ensure a potential clash with riders of the Wiggle New Forest Sportive did not occur.