CYCLISTS were out in force for the annual Bicester Bike and Sports Day as the sun drew crowds in their hundreds.

Families flooded into Spider Park, in Bicester, with their two wheels in tow to highlight the benefits of their bikes.

Organisers A2Dominion, lead developers for Bicester's 6,000-home 'eco town' development, once again put on a host of fun and games for the annual event on Sunday.

It started with the popular Tour de Bicester – a challenging treasure hunt for all the family which trails through Bicester.

Residents were told to take to their bikes and find the clues along the way to make it round the course and win a victory medal at the end.

This year about 100 people took part in the tour, and more than 500 residents got stuck in at the event in total.

Local resident Amanda Flack said: "We regularly cycle into Bicester and this event has opened our eyes to the number of dedicated off road paths available, which is so important when cycling with children.

"It was our first time taking part in the Tour de Bicester and our family thoroughly enjoyed it."

Other events on the day included a display from Team Extreme, the UK's top extreme sports team, who took to BMX bikes, scooters and skateboards to show off their acrobatic skills, spins and flips.

More free activities and games included a climbing wall, arts and crafts, face-painting, a bouncy castle and a penalty shoot-out.

A2Dominion director of housing Dawn Wightman said: "This year’s bike and sports day was a fantastic occasion and we are proud to organise such a wonderful partnership event that celebrates Bicester’s community spirit and encourages residents to travel by bike and improve their health and wellbeing."

The event is staged annually by the NW Bicester developer to help promote cycling as a sustainable mode of transport for Bicester and its developments.

The company had help in the organisation from Cherwell District Council, Healthy Bicester, OneBicester, Grassroots Bicester, Bicester Green and Team Extreme.

Cherwell District Council leader Barry Wood said: "Across Bicester, we are making it easier for people to lead active lifestyles.

"The enthusiastic response to Bicester Bike and Sports Day once again shows that this healthy agenda really strikes a chord with local people.

"I believe that many who attended this exciting day of activity will go on to make cycling part of their daily routines, which is a great thing for their health and wellbeing."