MOTORISTS driving through Wensleydale came across a strange sight.

The road between Leyburn and Hawes was lined with cyclists - not in itself unusual.

However, one appeared to be Frankenstein's monster, another a fairy while others were dressed in bright colours reflecting the pride generated by the Queen's Golden Jubilee and England's World Cup progress.

The 140-strong parade was all in a good cause; publicans from the area had once again joined forces to arrange an annual fancy dress cycle ride to raise cash for local charities.

Teams taking part included licensees from the North Riding and Dales Licensed Victuallers Association, their families, friends and regulars as well as teams from the Black Sheep Brewery in Masham, Orange in Darlington, John Smith's Brewery in Tadcaster, the Scotch Corner Hotel, and the Central Dales doctors' surgery.

"It was a little dull to start with but the sun came out and it's been a lovely day,'' said spokeswoman Avril Douglas.

"We were met by the Yorkshire Air Ambulance and its crew at Hawes which was a fantastic sight - but everyone did a great job and, although they're a bit tired, everyone seems to have had a great day.''

It will be a couple of months before organisers are able to confirm the total the event has raised and a presentation evening will follow in September.