TIRED legs but happy faces aplenty.

That was the scene at the finishing line of a sponsored cycle ride in Woolmer Green, in aid of the Isabel Hospice.

More than 300 people – including lots of families with children – took part in the fundraiser, organised by long-standing hospice supporters Carol Newland and Sue Dewhurst.

Three distances were available on the day, with routes covering either 10, 25 or 50 miles.

And after all the pedalling was done, the cyclists descended on the village hall to help themselves to a bumper spread of home-made cakes, cups of tea, sausages and burgers.

Carol said: “Everyone really seemed to enjoy it and we were delighted at the support both from local people taking part and all our sponsors, including Gareths the Butchers, who generously supplied the sausages.

“It was wonderful to see children out on their bikes, one girl aged eight, cycled all 25 miles and still came back smiling!

“We were also impressed by the ones that cycled 50 miles. On average it took between four and five hours, thankfully there was a good rest stop in Peters Green!”

A prize was on offer for the child whose cycle helmet was the most imaginatively decorated.

Amelia Hammond, seven, who attends Heath Mount School in Watton-at-Stone, won an iPod shuffle for her skunk helmet design.

The event raised about �7,000 for the WGC-based hospice.

Director of fundraising Lisa Seccombe said: “Carol and Sue have impressed us all at Isabel Hospice, by organising this event.

“The Sunday Cycle Ride appealed to a wide audience within our local community, and it was great to see so many people there supporting us.

“The entrants were in good spirits and helped raised vital income.”