Strings of cyclists wound their way through Stalham en route to their lunch break stopping point at the Museum of the Broads.

The determined riders drifted in small groups uttering words of encouragement that they were approaching the resting point.

One man in his brightly coloured jersey rode to the front of his tiny peloton - taking the brunt of the wind.

But like the sun above - the happy faces of those at the museum shone brightly.

Trevor Bone, museum trustee, said it was a 'hectic' period for them and it was all hands on deck as more than 20 volunteers, including museum workers and their families, helped ensure the riders had a well-deserved break.

'We were well supported,' the 77-year-old added.

'They rode to the museum in three waves. They ate their lunch and seemed happy enough and then went on their way.

'When they got here they were glad to have five minutes off their bicycle seat. But they couldn't sit down for too long or their muscles would stiffen.'

Mr Bone, of North Walsham, said the cyclists who rode the shortest route took more of a leisurely break but the keen cyclists didn't stop for long.

'The first two cyclists stopped for water and didn't bother too much with lunch and went on their way. They wanted to win.'

The trustee said what stood out for him was how polite everybody was.

'They were all a very happy bunch. They were all extremely polite.'