CYCLISTS kept their spirits up despite heavy rain on the annual King Alfred bike ride.

About 180 people, aged between 15 and 65, saddled up and set off on their route from Wantage to Winchester on Sunday.

The challenge was to cycle from the King Alfred statue in Market Place, Wantage, to the statue in the centre of Winchester.

Riders took between three and eight hours to complete the 54-mile route.

Andy Crawford, Wantage town and district councillor, said: “The weather was horrible. It was pouring with rain and there was a southerly wind all the way for the cyclists.”

But he added: “Everyone had a good time despite several punctures along the way.”

Mr Crawford said the event started in the town where King Alfred was born and finished at the landmark where he was made king.

He added: “This event was organised from Winchester’s end as a result of some friends of mine who did the ride a few years ago.

“We felt it was appropriate to make it more of a regular event.”

To make sure that all participants were fed and watered before departure, the King Alfred’s Head pub, in Market Place, opened its doors early and provided tea, coffee and bacon sandwiches.

Refreshments were provided along the way to give riders an energy boost and keep them pedalling on through the awful conditions.

Alison Rooke, chairman of the Vale of White Horse District Council, set the group on their way.

Mr Crawford said the ride was a dry run for a much bigger one planned for next year to mark the 900th anniversary of the consecration of Hyde Abbey Church in Winchester, when the remains of Alfred were reburied in front of the high altar.

He added: “It was great to have the ride set off from Wantage.

“It brought life and vitality to the Market Place on a day when it is often quiet.”

wantage@oxfordmail.co.uk