ALMOST 1,500 cyclists pedalled for charity when they took part in the 20th annual Great Yorkshire Bike Ride.

The event is now on its way to raising its second million and the riders braved sweltering temperatures during their 70-mile ride from Wetherby to Filey.

This year, they were raising funds for a number of regional and national charities.

Donations are also made to St John Ambulance, Filey Lions, Thirsk Lions and Water Aid in recognition for their assistance in running the event.

Organiser John Taylorson said the event was becoming more popular than ever.

"The ride takes in some wonderful scenery across Yorkshire to the coast and we got a beautiful sunny June day for once, which added to the great atmosphere of the event," he said

"We had a record number of starters with 1,490 riders taking part and I estimate that we should exceed last year's proceeds and have a charity total of about £95,000 this year.