A record number of riders saddled up for the annual Halstead Charity Bike Ride and raised more than £5,000 for the Essex Air Ambulance.

The race, which goes through the town and country lanes to Finchingfield via three routes, attracted 267 riders.

Organiser Phil Davies, of Holmes and Hills Solicitors, said: “The feedback from the riders was excellent. People were very generous with their donations because it’s a cause that is very close to people’s hearts.

“Essex Air Ambulance even did a little flyover during the day.

“We do it every year and this was our 9th and largest one, raising over £5,000. Next year we will aim to make it even bigger.”