Hundreds of cyclists rode into Burnham-On-Sea on Saturday evening during an annual coast-to-coast cycling challenge.
Over 400 riders took part in the 205-mile cross-country Chase The Sun event that saw riders leaving the Isle of Sheppey in Kent at sunrise at 4.39am before heading to Burnham before sunset.
Cycling enthusiast Ben Steel from North Yorkshire was first to arrive in Burnham in a super time of 12 hours and 50 minutes. Speaking to Burnham-On-Sea.com, he said it was the first time he’d ridden in the event. “I do enjoy long distance rides like this and have really enjoyed the day, but I certainly won’t be riding back again straight away!”
“The ride across went really well with no problems – I even managed to fit in a brief tea stop along the way! I’m very tired but will be cycling to Highbridge to catch the train back home tonight!”
Several teams of cyclists finished in groups. Among them was the YMCA East Surrey cycling team for finished together in a group of three at 6.50pm. Thety are all from Redhill, Surrey.
Will Hunnam from London finished at 6.58pm and said: “The head wind was terrible towards the end and I suffered a puncture, but apart from that it was a great ride! I really enjoyed it.”
Local accommodation providers benefited, with several businesses in Burnham saying they were fully booked as a result of the event.
Town Centre Manager Bev Milner Simonds, who arranged music on the Esplanade to welcome the cyclists, said: “It was great to see lots of residents and cyclists out on such a breezy evening to cheer home those who’d cycled 205 miles in a strong head wind! I know how much of a benefit this is to local accommodation providers and I hope other businesses saw a positive impact too.”
Burnham’s Town Centre Manager with the first cyclist to finish, Ben Steel
Deputy Mayor Paul Young congratulating one of the finishers on Saturday night
Cyclists passing along The Esplanade at the end of their full day’s riding
Finishers enjoying the evening sunshine after their mammoth ride
The delight at finishing was visible on the finishers’ faces
Spectators gathered on the seafront to watch the cyclists arrive
Spectators were entertained with a unique horsebox disco on the seafront
