THE ROADS around Harwell Campus were quieter than usual on Wednesday morning as cyclists marked National Bike Week by riding to work.

Dozens of people swapped four wheels for two to participate in Campus Cycle to Work Day, an event organised by Harwell Bicycle Users Group (HarBUG).

Some riders cycled in groups departing from Didcot, Wantage and Grove, with 100 congregating on campus for a free breakfast on arrival.

HarBUG have been encouraging people to cycle to work for more than 20 years and chairman Kevin Wilkinson said the high turnout vindicated the group's efforts.

He said: "We have been running cycle ride days since the mid-90s and usually do two a year - one for when the clocks go forward to get people exercising again and the other during National Bike Week.

"Anyone who wants to try can join up on the day and there is always an experience ride leader there."

Cyclists who wished to ride with a group began their journey from three meeting points.

The first set of riders departed Grove's Millbrook Square at 7.30am, before joining others at Wantage's Nelson Pub at 7.45am to form a group of 10.

Another group of 10 left Didcot Parkway at 7.50am, while the majority of cyclists travelled to campus alone or with friends.

All riders were encouraged to arrive at the campus pavilion before 9am for a free breakfast serving tea, coffee and bacon rolls.

Mr Wilkinson revealed Wednesday's event did not match the record-setting 120 people who attended the last Cycle to Work Day in April.

But the electrical project engineer at Diamond Light Source said it continued to show an upward trend in cyclists on campus.

He said: "It's definitely getting more popular.

"The campus is growing but more people are trying out cycling to work.

"Some people do it because they're wanting some exercise during the day and others for a sustainable transport method.

"We've seen improvements to the cycling infrastructure over the last few years which is good."

Later that day riders had their bikes inspected for free by employees from Mountain Mania's Didcot store.

A 'cycle surgery' was set up in front of the Electron Building on Fermi Avenue offering tuning up, adjustments and minor repairs.