DOZENS of cyclists got together for a ride with a difference.

The festive glow-ride saw a gang of brightly lit bikes take to the streets in a bid to cheer up a dark winter’s afternoon – and get more women out and about on their bikes.

Riders from Sustrans, Breeze, Cycling UK and Southampton Cargo Bikes decorated their bikes with lights and tinsel – and handed out prizes for the best dressed bikes.

It’s part of a series of rides organised by My Journey Southampton. Taking in a loop of the Common, Bedford Place, London Road and city centre parks, the ride ended at the Bargate.

Coordinator Sharon Merredew said: “The rides are never competitive – we go at the speed of the slowest rider and we always stop for a coffee.”