Thousands of cyclists take part in Velo Birmingham

Thousands compete in the first Velo Birmingham cycle race

Cyclists from across the country have taken part in a 100-mile (161km) bike road race in three areas of the West Midlands.

Starting on Broad Street in Birmingham city centre, the 15,000 riders travelled through Worcestershire and Staffordshire before returning to Birmingham.

Roads were closed all along the route.

Event organisers apologised on Twitter for a delay in the start time and thanked people for their patience.

The first person crossed the finish line just before 12:00 BST.

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News image@snappersk Bikes at the start line@snappersk
News image@snappersk Bike riders@snappersk
News image@snappersk Bikers@snappersk
News imageJohn Bray Biker in WorcestershireJohn Bray
News imageRoad closures
News imageDecorated bikes
Decorated bikes have been placed in Bewdley, Worcestershire, to welcome riders

Former West Bromwich Albion defender Darren Moore took part in the event to raise money for Cure Leukaemia.

He said: "It's tough as you expect, but I'm really, really enjoying it.

"The other bikers are getting me through."

News imageJohn Bray Darren MooreJohn Bray
News imageToddlers watch event
Are these the youngest spectators?
News imageBike riders