AN estimated 800 cyclists took part in an annual bike ride which has raised over £100,000 for a cancer charity.

The fifth Rotary Dorset Bike Ride featured a record turnout with participants starting at Longthorns Campsite in Bovington.

It featured routes ranging from 10 miles to 108 miles which travelled through Wool, Stoborough, Wareham, Bere Regis, Puddletown, Winfrith and Lulworth.

Those taking part were asked to raise as much money as possible for Cancer Research UK and other good causes supported by the Rotary Club of Wareham, who organised the event.

David King, organiser of bike ride, said: "This is the fifth time that the Rotary Club have organised the event and this was the biggest one so far, up from 650 riders last year to 800 riders this year.

"So far, the Rotary Club of Wareham have raised over £100,000 for Cancer Research UK and we hope to have raised a lot more from this event.

"The ride was suitable for all level of riders from the family up to the hardened cyclists who wanted a real challenge doing the 108 mile Dorset Etape."

Neil Grice from Wareham said: "I have undertaken numerous charity rides but this one, by far, was the best organised, most enjoyable and most scenic."

Mr King said that the Rotary Club would like to thank all of their sponsors, as well as the numerous people who helped and gave up their time for registration and marshalling.

Bloor Homes, which is building the Westgate development in Wareham, provided £1,000 to cover the cost of signage and flyers, as well as food and drink for the riders on the day.

Meanwhile any participant who raised £400 at the event would be entered into a prize draw to win a bike and cycle vouchers donated by Cyclexperience of Wareham.