They could have changed its name to Ride Blue Skies, as perfect cycling weather greeted the first two days of Norfolk's premier bike-fest.

While the skies might not be quite as clear this morning, the final 20 and 50-mile rides were set to hit the road at 9am. Families have flocked to Holkham Hall to camp over the weekend, before setting off on a choice of routes through the surrounding countryside.

Peter Trett, one of the Pedal Norfolk event's organisers, said the numbers of riders were 10pc up on last year, with more than 500 in the saddle.

'The biggest growth has been the families,' he said. 'We put much more effort into the children's side this year. The Lycra-clad guys can disappear out on their rides and their wives and children can have a good time during the day.'

A special children's academy was among the attractions for younger cyclists, while more seasoned hands faced a succession of challenging routes around north and west Norfolk .

First to finish Saturday's flagship 100-mile ride was Jamie Standen. The 50-year-old carpenter from Hunstanton completed the two 50-mile legs route, which took riders as far afield as Gayton and Salthouse, in 5hrs, 21mins and 21secs.

'It was hard but fun,' he said. 'It's a new route this year. I'm local, so I've ridden some of the roads but it was very testing towards the end.'

Zac Wilson from Amersham, Bucks, was the youngest to complete a 50-mile route.

The 10-year-old raised more than £700 in sponsorship for ex-service charity Walking with the Wounded.

His mum Katy said: 'I'm very proud, it's amazing that he's managed to raise as much for the charity.'

Bill Jordan, who owns Pensthorpe Natural Park, near Fakenham, said: 'I did the 50, I went round slowly. I cruised round, I enjoyed it. I'm not very competitive.'

Sky TV cycling presenter Orla Chennaoui, who helped compere the event, was making her first visit to Norfolk.

'I'm bowled over by how beautiful it is,' she said. 'It's simply stunning.'

Are you enjoying Pedal Norfolk? E-mail adam.lazzari@archant.co.uk.