PEDALS were pushed as more than 200 riders turned out for Andover’s first ever cycling festival.

The town centre and Guildhall transformed into an “interactive cycling village” on Sunday as 224 cyclists pedalled out of the centre into leafy terrain surrounding the town.

Andover Cycling Festival catered for mixed ages and abilities with four cycling routes ranging from 65 miles to five miles.

Halo Sports organised the event, with sponsorship from Hampshire County Council, Stannah Lifts, Andover Vision and Bulpitt Print Ltd.

Halo Sports public relations director Angela Long said: “The cycling festival was part of an incentive to encourage cycling for healthy living and good community relations.

“The longer distance riders thoroughly enjoyed a great welcome in Nether Wallop where they were provided with a range of delicious refreshments on the beautiful village green.

“Many thanks to all who participated and came along. Let’s make the cycling festival an annual event on the Andover calendar.”

Representatives from Andover Wheelers Cycling Club, Andover BMX Club, Andover Leisure, Cycle Central and E Bikes Central from Ludgershall, Just Bikes, Vint Velo, Ticktock Timing, Challengers charity, Abbotts Ann Cycles, Halo Sports, Halo Himalaya and Nelson’s Ride organisation all supported the event, and offered a range of cycling services for all.

Test Valley mayor Councillor Ian Carr also joined with mayoress Beryl Carr and Hampshire County Councillor Andrew Gibson to drop the chequered flag, encourage the riders and hand out special medals to all participants.