THE annual Halstead charity bike ride returned for its 11th year, drawing a large crowd of competitors and spectators.

The Holmes and Hills Solicitors’ bike ride is one of the largest non-competitive charity cycling events in the area, with 341 riders taking part this year.

This year’s event was fundraising for Macmillan Cancer Support, with every rider donating their entry fee to the cause, as well as optional additional fundraising.

So far, more than £8,000 has been raised.

There were three routes to choose from, 11, 26 or 53 miles, with all riders invited to a complimentary and thoroughly deserved after-ride barbecue.

The ride followed a scenic route through Essex and Suffolk’s finest countryside, with the 53 mile route going along the Suffolk border, passing through Belchamp Walter, Clare and Ridgewell before returning to Halstead, through Finchingfield and Felsted.