Despite the rain on Sunday, hardy souls, both young and old, raised monies for Breast Cancer UK and End Polio Now.

This was the second year for a Charity Cycle Ride organised by the Narberth and Whitland Rotary Club’s president, David Haward.

Some cyclists were from clubs such as the Narberth Dynamos, Pembrokeshire Freewheelers, Towy Riders, Milford Tritons and the Tenby Aces.

Over 100 cyclists had pre-registered for the event and, despite the strong winds and rain, in excess of 60 turned up for the start at Bloomfield Community Centre at Narberth.

There was a choice of three routes: The keen enthusiasts had a 50-mile trek via the Preselis, starting at 9.45. Nicole Cooke, the Olympic cycling gold medallist from the Beijing Olympics led off the start of this section. A less tiring route of 27 miles was also well supported and finally at 10.45 the family groups set off for their 10-mile route via Narberth town centre.

Four plucky youngsters in this group were not deterred by the weather conditions. They were Anna, 9, from Tavernspite, Bella, 9, from Lampeter Velfrey, Eloise, 10, from Llanddewi Velfrey and Seren, 9, from Pentlepoir.

The Rotary Club members are grateful to all of the participants for raising their charitable donations for Breast Cancer UK and also the Rotary sponsored charity known as End Polio Now.

This latter campaign, started in 1985, has eradicated Polio worldwide apart from a relatively small number of cases arising in three poor eastern countries. The Bill Gates Foundation also produces match funding to support Rotary in this endeavour.

At the end of the rides, cyclists and their supporters enjoyed a hot and cold selection of delicious food served by the staff of the Cresselly Arms at Cresswell Quay.

The Rotary Club is grateful to proprietors Colin and John Evans for hosting the lunch in their marquee which gave shelter in such inclement conditions.

Nicole Cooke also kindly brought her autobiography titled ‘The Breakaway’ and signed copied for enthusiasts, including newly-elected County Clr. Vic Dennis, pictured in the marquee with Rotarians Steve Lewis and Barbara Rumbold.

The title of Nicole’s book is apt considering that she led all the way from the start and at times reached speeds of 40mph.

A great cyclist indeed -thanks for coming Nicole.