GALLERY: Riders take part in Somerset 100 cycling challenge

The Somerset 100 started and finished at Sweet Tea Rooms in Blakeway, near Wedmore, and offered riders 33 and 66-mile events alongside the 'Century' challenge.

The event was postponed in 2020, with all entries being rolled forward to its long-awaited return at the weekend.

The 100-mile ride starts with 60 miles of “relatively easy terrain” before the first feed stop in Long Road. 

Riders then reached a split with options to continue on the 100-mile ride or the head back to the start point via the 66-mile route.

Riders who opted to continue on the 'Century' route travelled to a second feed stop before climbing to the highest point on the Mendips. 

From there, they descended into Wells and returned to Blakeway across the Somerset Levels.

The description of the event on the Somerset Cyling website says: “Our annual ride has become very well-known and enjoys a full field of support every year.

“We keep costs, rider numbers and entry fees down, to organise the sort of event everyone can enjoy, feel they can manage, and be part of the overall event atmosphere.” 

The event does not use timing chips to make the event more enjoyable for entrants as it means their time “really doesn't matter”.

Kate Wilson and Frances Janssen from Somerset Wildlife Trust. Picture: Steve Richardson

There were 12 cyclists from Somerset Wildlife Trust among the entrants after the charity was donated entry slots.

Kate Wilson, community fundraising manager at Somerset Wildlife Trust, said: “We’re hugely grateful to Mark Cox at SomersetCycling.com for donating 12 free charity places to Somerset Wildlife Trust at the Somerset 100 on Sunday.

“We have a team of 30 supporters cycling for wildlife around the country lanes encircling our recently acquired Honeygar site on the Somerset Levels, and our flagship Westhay Moor National Nature Reserve.

“A huge thanks to our Team Wilder cyclists who have so far raised an amazing £3,231 - vital funds that will help protect our wildlife and wild places here in Somerset.

“We’ve currently on the lookout for people who’d like to take on a challenge for wildlife this year from walks to wild swims.

“Find your challenge at www.somersetwildlife.org/challenge-yourself.”  

GALLERY: Cyclists take part in the Somerset 100

Ann Oldham and Jane Willmington at the Sweet Tea Rooms for the Somerset 100. Pictures: Steve Richardson

Mark Bowskill, Wayne Sobers and Tracy Lewis with their bikes.

Dave Clarke (front) with Austin Fews, Graham Abrey, and Alan Cooper.

Sue Hasell in her Somerset Wildlife Trust fundraising shirt with Leon Kearle.

Somerset 100 riders celebrate after reaching the end of the ride.