More than 100 cyclists set off in less than ideal weather conditions to pedal routes around west Cornwall in aid of Penryn charity BF Adventure and the Royal Navy and Royal Marines charity.

The participants were all taking part in the inaugural BF Adventure Coast to Coast Cycle Sportive on Sunday, May 27, when they headed out to cover routes of 38, 60 and 100 miles.

Keren Spear, from Falmouth, undertook the 38 mile ride, which took riders from BF Adventure's base in Halvasso, down through the Lizard peninsula and back.

She was all smiles when she returned, and said: “Brilliant. I really enjoyed the ride. It was a great atmosphere, just can’t wait to get a cup of tea.”

Craig Ward, from Kent, who was visiting Cornwall with his family for the week, undertook the 60 mile ride. This route included the Lizard peninsula, and points further west such as Praa Sands.

He said: “The whole thing was very well organized. It was a challenging route, which was well signed with marshals on hand. Some great scenery.”

Gareth Churcher, from Mabe, was one of the riders to undertake the 100 mile sportive, which went all the way to the Lizard and Land’s End peninsulas, as well as up along the north coast.

He added: “A lovely ride. Lovely scenery, great support all the way around.”

The high sheriff of Cornwall, Sarah Coryton, was on hand to welcome the participants home. She was very enthusiastic in her support of the day, and said: “It was a wonderful event, very well organized, with great volunteers.”

Pete Woods, who was part of the team at BF Adventure to put on the Coast to Coast event, said after the event: “For me this event was about raising funds to ensure that vital programmes to support disadvantaged and disabled people can continue, whilst giving cyclists a new challenge. The support for the event that we received has been amazing. Many of the riders are already asking when the event will take place next year. It’s just very exciting, and gratifying to see the cyclists really enjoy the experience.”