ORGANISERS of the 11th annual Warminster Wobble have hailed this year’s event as a success after more than 100 riders took part and more than £1,000 was raised for charity.

The mayor of Warminster, Cllr Paul Macfarlane, opened the two-day event on Saturday, June 15, and introduced Lee Osment, Europe’s strongest man under 90kg, who went on to prove his strength by lifting a car containing two children.

Wobble organiser Colin French said: “We had about 80 riders taking part this year. Everybody was up for it and it is now established as an annual event.”

Attractions on Saturday included the Trick Gravity display team which performed some high jumps and drop offs from platforms at great height.

Mr French added: “The Turbo Challenge, where two riders have a virtual race, was popular and saw entrants lining up all day to take part. Trophies were awarded for the fastest times.”

Along with the ever-popular Whacky Bikes there was paint art, a graffiti wall, pizza and sausages and popcorn.

Running alongside the Wobble, more than 30 riders took part in the new 30-mile Gravel Challenge on local trails.

Leaving from close to the town park the route was devised by John Pagan, of Cannimore Cycles, and offered a challenge on climbs and descents with prizes for the top three times. The fastest rider completed the route in just over two hours.

On Sunday, more than 80 riders assembled in the park to ride one of the four rides on offer. Over 25 riders took part in the Charity ride to Langford Lakes.

They helped to raise over £1,000 for the Thai Elephants charity to improve the conditions of elephants in tourist areas worldwide that often endure miserable lives.

A speedy 40-mile ride was also on offer, plus a family ride to a local pub for a picnic lunch.