The dismal weather that covered the county on Sunday did nothing to discourage the cyclists who took part in the British Heart Foundation’s Wiltshire bike ride.

More than 400 wheelers set off from the Lye recreation field in Seend on the 28-mile and 47-mile circular routes around central Wiltshire. Event organiser Andy Coles said: “It really was wet but that sort of weather doesn’t put off dedicated riders. We had 400 entrants pre-registered and another 42 brave souls turned up on the day.

“We didn’t expect record numbers because of the weather so we are very pleased that so many did turn up. Early predictions on the amount raised for BHF are between £25,000 and £28,000.

“It is an event that is really well supported by local people and they didn’t let us down.”

More than 40 volunteers manned refreshment stations around the two routes and cyclists were grateful for hot cups of tea and biscuits to perk them up after cycling through the rain. Mr Coles said: “Our refreshment stops were very well used. Despite the weather everyone seemed to have a good time and the money they have raised will help save lives across Wiltshire.”