ABOUT 2,000 cyclists pedalled their way around the New Forest as part of an organised two-day cycling event.

The annual Wiggle New Forest 100 Sportive, which ran over the course of the weekend, started at Somerley House in Ringwood with riders opting for one of three routes.

Depending on the length of the route that a participant follows, they could travel through Brockenhurst, up to Romsey, close to Salisbury, down through Ashford, Three Legged Cross and Hurn.

Natalie Hicks, head of UK Cycling Events, which organises the rides, said: “We have about 2,000 people, which is a normal amount.

“People tend to travel up to 60 or even 100 miles to take part.

“There are lots of people that are doing this for charity while others are doing it for their own personal achievement.”

She said that one group of fundraisers have already raised £2,000 for Cardiomyopathy UK ahead of the event taking place.

She said: “It’s for people to enjoy.

“This is the first year that we have held the event at Somerley House and it has better facilities and a beautiful backdrop of the house.

“The backdrop of the roads through the New Forest inspire you.”