HUNDREDS of women embraced pedal power when a flagship charity race cruised through the New Forest.

Mothers, sisters, friends and colleagues of all ages united for the Cycletta ride in Beaulieu in aid of Macmillan Cancer.

Riders gathered at Palace House, Beaulieu, chatting and laughing, with many dressed in trademark pink lycra for the all-women event.

They set off on four routes ranging in length from 20km to 150km, taking in some of the national park’s most stunning seriously scenery while raising vital funds for the cancer charity.

The routes covered the southern half of the forest including Brockenhurst, Lymington and Lepe Country Park.

Organisers of the Wiggle Sportive moved their ride route northwards to prevent the two events from clashing.

At Cycletta volunteers manned a series of feed stations stationed at separate points along the ride while there was entertainment to keep family members not saddling up amused.

Children also grabbed a slice of the action with youngsters setting off on scooters around a shorter route.

All participants received finishing medals and a goodie bag.