ANDOVER Cycling Festival made a successful return to the town yesterday (Sunday, October 10) after a two-year break.

Hundreds of people participated in the popular race that involved three rides in 80, 50 and 15 miles.

The most popular of the races was the sportive race that took the participants through the countryside along scenic lanes in Hampshire, Wiltshire, Berkshire and Oxfordshire.

Among the people who participated in the races was Test Valley Borough Councillor Phil North, who said it was a great and exhausting day.

“I entered the 50-mile sportive with my Dad again this year, which takes in some fantastic scenery, when I wasn’t cursing the hills, across, Hampshire, Wiltshire and the Berkshire border,” Cllr North said.

“Fantastic to finish off with a pint from Pete in The Town Mills and a calorie busting waffle from Kelly in Cantos. I’m pleased people are coming from quite long distances to attend.

“I spoke to entrants from Bristol and Gloucester today - and there were quite a lot of others spending money in the High Street afterwards.

“Really hope next year will see the return of the family route. Unfortunately, this year’s event was delayed and pared back due to Covid.”

The race was originally scheduled to be held on July 11, but had to be delayed due to various reasons.

Andover Town Centre was the starting and finishing point of the race.

Collingwood Medical Services offered medical support for the event. There were first aid available at the start and finish area.