Keen cyclists sacrificed their Sunday lie-in to take part in a gruelling bike ride around Norfolk.

Hundreds of Lyrca-clad enthusiasts gathered outside Norwich's Forum from 6.45am onwards to take part in the Norwich 100 - where participants have the choice of taking 25, 50 or 100 mile routes through the Norfolk countryside.

All routes set off from the The Forum and finish in Bishopgate.

Along the way the route took them towards the coast passing through, Walcott, Mundesley, Sheringham and Holkham before heading back towards Norwich via Aylsham.

Paul Hobbs, from organisers Bike Events, said: 'I live in Bristol now but I used to come to Norwich a lot when I was younger on holiday.

'I particularly liked Norfolk and wanted to come back. The roads are fairly quiet, and it has a beautiful countryside.

'People think it's flat but we are pleased to point out it is not.'

The event was the 22nd of its sort held in the city, and Norwich Lord Mayor David Fullman helped set each batch of riders off on their way from the start line.

Mr Fullman said: 'I think [the event] is good for cycling and it's good for Norwich.

'It brings people to the city, it's good for health as well as it's encouraging people onto their bikes.'

Mr Hobbs said people had travelled from as far as Scotland to take part in the route.

'People come before and stay over, they make a day of it in the city. It's not a race, but many of the cyclists do try and beat their own personal bests.'

Riders were supported throughout the ride by marshals, mechanics and medical staff. And many raised money for charities close to their hearts.