CYCLISTS' pedal power was put to the test when an annual 75-mile race attracted 60 competitors despite the freezing weather.
On Sunday morning, cyclists set off on the South East Members' Group's race, starting and finishing in Wickford and passing through Ingatestone.
There were three race categories depending on riders' predicted speeds. It took between four and seven hours for the competitors to finish.
The event featured 60 riders competing in wintry conditions and the fastest cyclist finished in four hours and 12 minutes.
The race had been postponed due to poor weather conditions and finally took place two weeks later than expected.
The competition started and finished at the Market Cafe, in Woodlands Road, Wickford, with five checkpoints along the way.
The event was organised and run under the rules of the Cyclists' Touring Club, the UK's national cyclists' organisation.
Race organiser Stefan Eichenseher, from Southend, said: "I expected a few more riders but it was very cold so that might have put them off.
"Only 47 completed the route – it was very windy on the way out and many people cycle to the start so do not feel they have to finish.
"The race is a popular warm up for the racing season which starts in April and good practice for those who want to try a fast race for the first time."
For more information on future events by the Cyclists' Touring Club, call 0844 736 8451 or visit www.ctc.org.uk
