HUNDREDS of cyclists assembled in Watchet on Sunday for the fourth annual Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance Coast to Coast Cycle Challenge. Not designed as a race, the event saw cyclists of all ages and abilities set off on a gruelling but gloriously sunny 54-mile ride to West Bay in Dorset. Some completed a shorter, 11-mile route which began at Drimpton in Dorset and also ended at West Bay. In total, 546 cyclists turned out on the day, with many coming from the West Somerset area. Others came from as far afield as Essex to take part in what has become an annual spectacular. After being encouraged to pay a visit to one of the four pit stops on-route to refill their water bottles and enjoy the refreshments, the cyclists were set on their way by the Mayor of Watchet, Cllr Loretta Whetlor. Of those taking part, many had experienced the work of the Air Ambulance first-hand and were delighted to be able to play their part on the day. Team entries were also popular, with groups from the emergency services, sporting clubs, businesses and family and friends, all raising funds. One cycling group, the Team o' Tumblers, represented the horse racing, eventing, hunting and farming community. Their line-up included the recently retired National Hunt jockey Joe Tizzard, Georgina Nicholls the wife of Somerset horse trainer Paul Nicholls, horse trainer Harry Fry and Emma Barber, a member of the Blackmore and Sparkford Vale Masters who was airlifted by the charity chopper. The group had set themselves a fundraising target of £10,000, but announced at the finish that they had already exceeded that total. Bill Sivewright, Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance chief executive officer, said: "We are delighted that this year's event was once again well supported. "We were bowled over by the fact that within three weeks of registration opening, it was sold out! "Right from the start, back in 2011, we emphasised that was not a race but a challenge. This year, the challenge proved a little tougher with the addition of a head wind and warm weather. "The atmosphere among the cyclists and those who supported them at the start, en-route and at the finishing point was simply incredible." He thanked everyone who had supported the event and said planning had already started for the 2015 ride. Last year's event raised over £60,000 for the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance and more than £40,000 has already been collected this year with more money still to come. Anyone who would like to make a donation in support of the cyclists can do so online through the charity's website or by texting COAS04 £10 to 70070. Photos: Paul Scullion