A CYCLING challenge celebrated its fifth year with hundreds of cyclists taking part to raise money for an important cause.

The Whitehead Tour de Gwent returned today, raising money for St David’s Hospice Care, with various sponsors and supporters, including Whitehead Building Services.

At least 700 people gathered at the starting line in Caerleon to take part in one of the six routes on offer, to allow inclusivity and accessibility to all.

The routes included platinum (93 miles), gold (78 miles), silver (52 miles), bronze (30 miles), midi (20 miles) and kids (three miles).

Check out our gallery of photos, by Steve Phillips, of the cyclists in action.