MOUNTAIN bikers were put through their paces at the 17th annual Exmoor Explorer challenge on Sunday. Nearly 400 riders from all over the country took part, leaving Minehead Rugby Club in glorious sunshine and heading up North Hill for the start of the 31-mile route. The traditional format of a 20-mile 'short loop', with the option to do an extra ten-mile mile 'long loop' for those looking for a more strenuous ride, was changed this year to allow less experienced riders to have a go. The 2014 event featured three loops of approximately ten miles each, getting progressively more difficult, with the third loop aptly named 'The Killer'. Cyclists pay a small fee to take part, with profits after running costs have been covered going to charity. And before the start of this year's challenge, organisers handed a £5,000 donation to the Dorset and Somerset Air Ambulance. Previously, in addition to donations to host organisations including Cutcombe Fete Committee, Timberscombe Cricket Club and local village halls, funds have also been donated to Breast Cancer Research, Musgrove Park Hospital, and the David Rayner Fund to support young cyclists. Exmoor Explorer committee member Neil Brooks said: "Seeing the riders enjoying themselves makes all the hard work organising the event worthwhile. "It is very rare that anyone has a complaint and whatever the weather throws at the riders they always come away with a smile on their faces - that's what it's all about." The event is always held on the first Sunday of August, but the venue for next year has yet to be decided. Photos: Paul Scullion