Almost 2,000 cyclists descended on Blenheim Palace as the stately home opened its gates to riders for the first time today.

The Bike Blenheim Palace event attracted 1,800 family cyclists in addition to a field of top competitors battling it out in a number of events within the picturesque grounds.

A 20km time trial was won by reigning British champion Michael Hutchinson, while David Clarke took first place in an elite road race.

At noon, the highlight of the day saw 500 competitors dressed in suits ride folding bikes in the Brompton World Championship.

Event director Paul Orsi said: "It's been a marvellous success.

"Bromptons are normally used by commuters, so there were 500 people dressed in suits and ties racing their bikes in front of the palace.

"There was a Le Mans-style start, where everyone had to unfold their bikes before setting off. It was an amazing spectacle.

"There has never been any general family cycling around Blenheim and we hope this will get bigger and bigger each year."