A RECORD-breaking 1600 people took part in Wirral’s fundraising Bikeathon on Sunday.

Organisers of the Globe-backed event say the cyclists' efforts have raised an estimated £58,000 for Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research. Last year, 1514 people got on their bikes.

For some it was their first Bikeathon while others keep coming back year after year.

Among those taking part this year was the event's patron, Olympic gold medallist and BBC commentator, Chris Boardman MBE.

The Hoylake-born sportsman said: "It is wonderful that each year more and more people turn out for the Bikeathon to raise money for Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research and its aim of beating blood cancer.

"We would like to thank everyone who took part by riding, their supporters and sponsors, and also the many volunteers who make the Wirral Bikeathon the great success story that it has become."

Wirral's mayor Steve Foulkes praised the riders for their efforts and set many of them off from the starting line with words of encouragement. Wirral South MP Alison McGovern helped present well-earned medals to riders at the finish line.

Sixteen-year-old Jason Crowden, from Woodchurch, was the winner of the Boardman Bike prize draw that all riders enter.