Nearly 500 riders powered their way through the Norfolk countryside as a well-regarded cycle event took to the road once again.

Riders took on distances of 100, 70 and 40 miles on the Boudicca Sportive ride, which coursed through the lanes of Mid Norfolk, North Norfolk and Breckland on Sunday.

Setting off from Snetterton, riders on the 100-mile route went north to just shy of Brancaster, climbing 893m and even getting a glimpse of the sea.

The well-established ride prides itself on avoiding busy roads, without a single mile taking place on an A road.

Riders on the 100-mile ride also pass 15 churches and 15 pubs on a tailor-made, scenic route.

And those taking part were singing its praises - despite some wet weather on the route.

Andrew Harris, from Dereham, who was taking part for the third time, said: 'Route was fab, stops perfectly space and there were ample refreshments. A massive thank you to all the volunteers on the course.'

Ed Maxim, from Norwich, took on the 100-mile route and echoed those sentiments: 'Great ride, one of the best organised sportives of the year so far. The route is great, there's clear signage and fantastic feed zones manned by really great folks.'

The ride also recruited help from volunteers in the local community, with feed stations in West Acre, Burnham Market and Bradenham manned by villagers.

The ride's headquarters was based at World Horse Welfare in Snetterton.

Sara Flatt, from Boudicca Sportive, said: 'We have a super relationship with World Horse Welfare, they look after the riders really well with food and drink after the ride and with plenty of space and a relaxed atmosphere.'

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