HUNDREDS descended on the New Forest to take part in one of Hampshire's biggest mass cycling events.

The Wiggle New Forest 100 Sportive is a two-day rally that saw riders from the UK setting off from Somerley House, near Ringwood this morning.

Cyclists taking part in the event had the choice of three cross-country routes ranging from 30 to 100 miles.

The shortest route comprised of a course confined to towns and villages in the Avon Valley area, including Ringwood, Fordingbridge and Verwood.

Cyclists eager to travel further afield followed a 59-mile route that took in areas such as Brockenhurst, Lyndhurst and Bramshaw.

A 100-mile course comprised of a circular route that included the northern tip of the Forest, plus a large area on the other side of the A36.