A total of 120 riders braved sweltering heat to take part in The Big Ride, a new cycling event organised by Dorset children's hospice Julia’s House.

Previously run as the Hospice-to-Hospice ride, with a route between the Dorset hospice in Corfe Mullen and the Wiltshire hospice in Devizes, this year it changed venue and name in favour of a new circular route starting from Larmer Tree Gardens.

Cyclists chose between a 50 and 100 mile ride through beautiful open countryside, villages – and up a couple of very challenging hills. At the end of their journey the cyclists were presented with medals and treated to a celebratory hog roast and glass of Prosecco.

Last year’s ride raised £63,000 and it is hoped that figure will be matched.

Organisers would like to thank the Julia’s House volunteers for manning checkpoints, refreshments and road crossings, and to sponsors Addo Food Group, Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Muc Off, Emily Crisps and Pedals Cycle Centre.