Cyclists of all ages descended on Cockermouth once again to raise money for a charity that is continuing to help so many people across Cumbria.

The Jennings Rivers Ride, which is now in its fifth year, was created in the aftermath of the 2009 floods to help raise money for the Cumbria Community Foundation.

Following the arrival Storm Desmond last December, the foundation once again sprang into action to help communities across the county recover from the devastation.

But after Jennings Brewery in Cockermouth - which supports the event - was once again hit, organisers decided to create a new challenge and the ride was moved to the town itself.

Around 300 riders set out on a range of different routes, including the Family Ride Trail Quest and the 27.5-mile (44km) Community Challenge Ride.

Meanwhile others set off on the Foundation Fandango, a route of 52.5 miles (84km) and the New Big Day Out - which spans 83.75 miles (134km).

Cheryl Frost, of Rather Be Cycling, which organises the event, told the News & Star that the atmosphere in and around Cockermouth had been fantastic. "The was out, so that always helps," she said.

"The family ride seems to have been really popular. Riders had two hours to try and find 10 points on a treasure map. The riders on the longer routes also seemed to have enjoyed themselves."

Cheryl believes that the routes chosen played a big part in drawing so many riders to the event. "There's so much to see and lots of beautiful scenery around, so it doesn't really matter which ride you're taking part in," she added.

"The fact that there's four different routes also means that everyone can take part, whatever their ability. For example mum can go off and do one route while dad does another and the kids something else if they want. It's a great way for people to get into cycling."

And Cheryl said that raising money for the Cumbria Community Foundation was also a major factor for people to take part. "There's a great spirit and everyone is raising money for a great cause," she added.

"It's something that means so much to so many people."