CYCLISTS from all over Hampshire and Surrey met recently at Medstead Village Hall to take part in Cycling UK North Hampshire’s annual Phil Hampton Memorial Ride.

Organised by Dan and Janice Montgomerie, the event commemorates the life of cyclist Phil Hampton, who was killed by a lorry while cycling 20 years ago.

It was a sunny morning with a strong northerly wind blowing when the riders set out to tackle one of two routes: a 30-mile route which took in the Candover Valley road, Itchen Abbas and Alresford, or a 50-mile route which headed south through Cheriton and Bishops Waltham, and returned via Hambledon, West Meon and Ropley.

On their arrival back at the hall the riders enjoyed refreshments prepared by Janice and Janet.

Janice said: “Thanks to all the riders and others who supported the event with donations, practical help and home-made cakes, we were able to raise a record-breaking sum of £1,160 for The Cyclists’ Defence Fund, a charity which offers help with legal cases relating to cycling.”

Cycling UK North Hampshire runs moderate-paced rides from Alton Community Centre three times a week. New members are always welcome. See https://www.cyclinguk-northhampshire.org.uk/