• Click here for our picture gallery from the event.

IT WAS second time lucky for hundreds of cyclists as the British Heart Foundation Worcestershire Bike Ride got off to a dry start.

The popular annual event launched from the Worcester Warriors Sixways Stadium at 9am yesterday morning under a cloudy but rain-free sky.

The ride, which raises thousands of pounds for the BHF, had been due to take place at the end of April, however, torrential rain and flash flooding forced organisers to re-schedule at the last minute.

The hiccup failed to dampen the enthusiasm of those taking part as keen cyclists of all ages and abilities turned out in their droves yesterday to take on a 17-mile, 30-mile or 50-mile route around the Worcestershire countryside.

Dean Caswell, of Bromsgrove, tackled the longest challenge with work colleagues Jerry Hadley and Andy Darkes, and Mr Darkes’ wife Debbie.

He said: “We cycle for pleasure together sometimes and we thought it would be a bit of a challenge, as well as a worthy cause.

“It’s our first time at an event like this and I’ve raised about £360, so a huge thanks goes to all those who have sponsored me.”

It was also the first time for nine-year-old Max Moody, who was cycling the 17-mile route with dad and experienced rider, Tim Moody.

Mr Moody, of Broms-grove, said: “I’ve done a number of these, including a 100-mile one.

"We’re doing the 17-mile route today to introduce Max to it. He’s raised about £50 in sponsorship from his school friends.”

Max said: “I’m very excited.”

And a team from mining machinery manufacturers Joy Global in Bromyard Road, Worcester, raised almost £1,000 for BHF – £300 of which was donated by the company.

Jemma Curran, the charity’s regional event organiser, said she was delighted with the turnout of about 500 riders and hoped the event would raise close to £27,000.

She said: “There was no way we could have done the ride beforehand.

"We’ve had lots of support from everyone and it’s just lovely to see so many people, including lots of teams.

“We’re hoping to really expand this event and it’s fantastic to see it progress.”

• Click here for our picture gallery from the event.