HUNDREDS of cyclists joined former world champion Hugh Porter on a ride through the picturesque Worcestershire countryside today.

The Aviva Tour Ride saw 786 cyclists get up bright and early this morning to set off from the University of Worcester Arena on a choice of 100, 75 or 40-mile routes throughout the county.

They were joined by the 75-year-old cycling legend, who won four world titles in individual pursuits during his career – more than any other cyclist in history.

It was a perfect morning for cycling, starting off misty and a little chilly, but soon warming up, with the sun down from a cloudless sky.

Speaking before he set off Mr Porter, who took part in the 40 mile route and was cheered on by his wife Anita Lonsbrough – who won a gold medal in the 200m breaststroke at the 1960 Olympic Games in Rome – said he was looking forward to the ride.

“The thrust of this is about celebrating my 75th year,” he said. “I wanted a peg to hang it on and this was perfect.

“I’ve also been married 50 years in June, so we’re celebrating that too.

"A lot of my mates have joined me as well. There’ll be lots of laughs along the way I’m sure."

He added he was leaving the longer route to the younger riders.

“Forty miles is enough for me,” he said. “Most of my time these days is spent commentating.

“I just ride the bike three times a week to keep my fitness up.”

Mr Porter was also fundraising for Compton Hospice in his home city of Wolverhampton, and had raised about £2,000 by Sunday morning, with more donations coming in.

The cyclists set off in groups of between 40 and 50, with the full 100-mile route, which included 2,246 metres of ascent, taking them through Martley, Clifton upon Teme, Alfrick, Suckley, Malvern, Upton, Pershore and Droitwich, before arriving back at Worcester Racecourse.

Worcestershire County Council vice chairman Cllr Tony Miller was also on hand to see the riders off, and said he was delighted the event was being held here.

“We are a world-class county with world-class events,” he said.

“Where else could you have a better cycle ride through the countryside than Worcestershire?"

The event was previously known as the Friends Life Tour Ride and is the amateur equivalent of the Tour of Britain, a stage of which was also held in Worcestershire last year.

Also on hand at Sunday’s event was board member at Worcestershire Enterprise Partnership Chris Walklett, who said he was delighted the county had been chosen to host it.

“It’s something the county can be really proud of,” he said.

“In many ways Worcestershire punches above its weight with events like this.”

The day also involved a family cycle ride at Worcester Racecourse.