OLYMPIC gold medalist Alex Danson lined up alongside more than 60 cyclists at the weekend to take part in the Tour de Ford – a 50-mile ride through the Hampshire countryside.

Hosted by the Hendy Group Ford Store in Eastleigh, the event was designed to give local cyclists a taste of the pro cycling experience with the Team Sky Tour de Ford.

Hockey gold medalist Alex, who has been supported by the Hendy Group for the past two years, scycled with her sister Claire, a professional triathlete.

Alex said they had both thoroughly enjoyed the ride which included a half-way halt at Hendy Ford in Winchester.

The group were set on their way by Eastleigh MP Mims Davies .

Paul Hendy, chief executive of the Hendy Group, said: “It was a great opportunity for cyclists to get a feel for the Team Sky experience on our local road and we were delighted to welcome Alex and her sister Claire to join the cyclists together with cyclists from across the area.”

The cyclists were accompanied by Team Sky blue and black liveried Ford Edge cars, which had supported the 2016 Tour de France winners.