A RECORD number of bikers turned out for the fifth Action on Addiction charity bike ride from Weymouth to Exmouth.

At the starting point - ASM on the Granby Industrial Estate - the sound of around 200 motorbike engines being revved at once was a fitting homage to the pain caused by addiction.

Despite the serious message, the atmosphere was kept upbeat thanks to the 'pink' theme of the event - bikes and riders were adorned with feather boas, glitter, wigs and even a unicorn onesie.

John Bramble, who founded the event in memory of his son Craig, said he was thrilled to see such a high turnout.

"It's absolutely amazing - I'm buzzing.

"There are more people joining us at West Bay, so the numbers will be even higher.

"Yesterday I was both anxious and excited - you never know how many people will turn up and whether things will run smoothly, so I'm really pleased to see it all come together."

The event raises money for Clouds House, a rehab centre near Shaftesbury - last year's fundraising total was more than £8,000.

After a minute's silence in tribute to three riders who were closely involved with the event but have sadly passed away, the riders were waved off by Chickerell Mayor Lynda Wise.

Mayor Wise said: "Addiction is everywhere - it's a cause that's not funded very well, so it's up to charities such as this to try to stop the problem growing year on year. I'm pleased to be here supporting today's event."

Swanage resident Megan Hubbard has been coming to the event for five years, and attended with boyfriend Adam Harris from Dorchester, who said it was his first time.

"It's nice to be able to give money and support the charity", Megan said.

Adam said: "It shows that bikes coming together in a massive group doesn't symbolise trouble."

Debbie Mundy from Lyme Regis said she was looking forward to getting on the road to support an important cause. "There are a lot of big charities out there, so it's good to be able to support something less well-known", she said.

The group stopped off at West Bay, where they had refreshment breaks at the Snack Shack.

A barbecue awaited the riders at the finish line in Exmoor, organised and sponsored by the Budleigh Salterton Lion’s, with food provided by Tesco. A bar was provided by Exmouth FC.

Riders donated £5 to take part, and a fundraiser is also online.

To donate, visit uk.virginmoneygiving.com/JohnBramble