Thousands of cyclists are spending the day in the saddle in Norfolk today, using pedal power to boost the British Heart Foundation.

With the sun beating down on their backs, the cyclists set off from The Forum in Norwich for one of three routes - 25 miles, 50 miles and 100 miles.

The 25 mile route heading across to Coltishall and back to the start, while the 50 mile route loops back to Norwich past Bickling Hall.

The 100-milers continue up to the coast and east to the half-way point at Sheringham, before skirting the Broads to head for the finish at Bishopgate in Norwich city centre.

Refreshment stops have been set up along the route, with support vehicles keeping an eye on the riders.

The event is raising money for the British Heart Foundation. Heart Disease is the UK's biggest single killer and the charity's goal is to ensure hearts keep beating.

In 1961 the number of children born with a heart defect who survived to their first birthday was around only 20pc. Today that figure is 80pc, thanks to procedures such as valve replacement that help them lead improved lives.