THE threat of bad weather did not deter thousands of cyclists enjoying one of the biggest mass events in Southampton's calendar.

Sky Ride Southampton returned for its seventh year, and despite grey clouds and rain, more than 11,000 people took to the city's streets.

The spectacular event on Sunday saw experienced cyclists mingle with amateurs of all ages on an 8km route taking in some of the city's most familiar sights.

Thousands of cyclists, from pensioners to families with children, gathered at Guildhall Square in fluorescent yellow bibs.

Southampton City Council's communities, culture and leisure boss Satvir Kaur opened the event alongside city Mayor Cathie McEwing and fellow councillor Eamonn Keogh.

For Cllr Kaur the event is close to her heart as it taught her how to ride, and she was one of the thousands who took part.

She said: "It is absolutely phenomenal - it is one of our best sporting events.

"It's the city bringing people together with over 10,000 people taking part, and what's so fantastic about events like this is it brings people together from all ages and backgrounds.

"It is a family focused event and it contributes to the local economy.

"Also events like this are great for people who are not usually active and it gives them a chance to leave the car at home and dust off their bikes and that is really good for the city being active and healthy.

"I hope it encourages people to continue to cycle and get more active in Southampton."

There was also a wide range of free activities and entertainment for riders to enjoy as well, while visitors got a close-up look at the bikes used by the Great Britain Cycling Team and Team Sky and Halfords cycle experts carried out dozens of free bike checks and minor repairs.

John Regan-Miles, 50, a chef from Portswood, has attended every Sky Ride and stood out from the crowd in a blue angel outfit.

Mr Regan-Miles said: "I have done this event since it started and have worn all sorts of outfits, I am passionate about cycling and it is great to have a event that everyone can go to."

Echoing his sentiments was driving instructor Kay Lanaghan, 53, from Sholing who said: "I love it, I think it is fantastic for the kids plus it keeps the oldies going and it brings the community together."

A spokesman for British Cycling said: "Everyone was really helpful and the council have been really good too, everything was good and lots of people came down and really enjoyed it."