The 12th Tour of Pembrokeshire provided the now annual success story after a stunning day of cycling yesterday.

At around 7am, the early starters set off on the Paul Ties (106.2 mile) route, that incorporated around 10,000 feet of elevation around North Pembrokeshire.

Councillor Huw George introduced proceedings at the Crug Glas Country House Hotel but it was Mark Colbourne, MBE, who officially kicked things off. The 2012 London Paralympic Gold medal winner spoke to cyclists at the start line and offered advice before setting them on their way.

Not far behind were cyclists for the Bullfinch Cycles route (81.1 miles) and Lloyd Motors Volvo route (56.9 miles).

On Friday, the same venue had hosted the pre-tour warm up with Nathan Thomas, physiotherapist for team Sky Cycling (now Ineos) on hand to advise riders with niggles, and Joe Kitchell (Fleet Cycles) made any required repairs or adjustments to bikes. Guest speaker was Maria Leijerstam, the first person to cycle to the South Pole, while Tour ambassador Simon Warren answered questions.

Yesterday, overcast conditions gave way to bright sunshine for all involved, and for those there for a more relaxed ride also had an option as the Paul Sartori Family Ride (23.7 miles) got underway mid-morning.

Pre-ride bacon rolls were served with coffee and tea, and riders also enjoyed a free post-ride meal. Feed-stations were stocked en route with locally sourced food.

And afterwards, everyone was entertained by live music and organisers were left to hail an 'excellent day', as were many of the cyclists.

"It was my first time in this event," said Mark Nicholls.

"A fantastic day and fantastic local support. Hope to be back."

Jason Hyde added "Great event as always - challenging but rewarding, great feed stations and simply the best views," - and Ian Irwin was another to pay tribute: "I have done quite a few sportives and can honestly say the Tour of Pembrokeshire was without the best one I've done.

"Well signposted and marshalled Even the weather was kind to us."

Colbourne himself, who rode the Paul Ties route, said he 'loved the occasion'.

As usual there were many members of Pembrokeshire teams entered, including the Tenby Aces, Narberth Dynamos, and Milford Tritons. There was also a large representation from the DJP Foundation, helping raise awareness of people in rural communities with poor mental health.