MORE than 300 riders joined a charity bike event for cycling enthusiasts of all ages.

The Faringdon Tour de Farcycles charity cycle ride saw riders compete routes of 30 to 80 miles.

‘Le Tour’, which was awarded a Queens’ Award for Voluntary Service, supports Farcycles’ work in lobbying for cycling infrastructure improvements and promoting cycling investment and sustainable transport.

Syoerd Vogt, founding member and one of the event organisers for the Tour de Farcycles, said: “What a fantastic event! This was by far our biggest field of entrants for our seventh event. Our cycling event is truly special and many thanks to Bewley Homes who became the main sponsor.

Oxford Mail: Farcycles Le Tour - Caption: l-r Bewley Homes Sales executive Steve Fairclough with Farcycles organizer David Williamson

“The feedback has been overwhelming and a big thank you to the many people who made this event such a big success. As well as lots of local people, riders came from huge distances away and enjoyed it so much they fully intend to come again next year.”

Bewley Homes, which is developing Bellmount View in the town, teamed up with Farcycles as part of its ‘Bewley Backs Bikes’ campaign to promote safe cycling, healthier lifestyle and mindfulness.

The company’s Elaine Stratford said: “We were delighted to sponsor Le Tour de Farcyles. It mirrors many of the key aims of our ‘Bewley Backs Bikes’ campaign. We believe that getting out in the fresh air and spending that kind of quality time safely, has never been more important.”