HUNDREDS of cyclists tackled the popular White Rose Classic road cycling sportive on Sunday despite having to contend with some unseasonal weather conditions.

This was the fourth year that volunteers from Ilkley Cycling Club have organised and run the event. Over 800 people entered one of three challenging routes ranging from 50 to 115 miles.

The routes looped out from Ilkley around Otley, Grassington, Hawes, Ribblehead and Settle, over some of the most demanding climbs in the Dales.

Riders from all over the region and many from much further afield started out from Ilkley Rugby Club from 6.30a.m.

The morning saw tough weather conditions for cycling with gusting wind, rain and even hail on the high passes. Riders stayed in good spirits, helped by the supply of sweet and savoury snacks at the three feedstations.

The weather improved significantly during the afternoon, allowing riders to dry out and warm up. Many returned in sunshine up to 11 hours later for a well-deserved meal, cup of tea and a pint of beer.

Ilkley Cycling Club's press officer Jonathan Riler said: "In an increasingly crowded and commercialised sportive calendar, Ilkley CC is proud to put on an event with a distinctly local flavour.

"The White Rose Classic is noted for it Yorkshire hospitality and this year was no different with many entrants commenting on the great food on offer at the feedstations and the friendly welcome from the many Ilkley Cycling Club volunteers who were up and about from 4am on the day to make it all run smoothly.

"Ilkley Cycling Club and volunteer organiser Nigel Ezard would like to thank all those that helped out before, during and after the event and also the Ilkley businesses who helped make it happen – Ilkley Cycles, Lishman’s of Ilkley, Spooners, Active 4U, Fat Lad At The Back and Ilkley Brewery."