RAIN failed to stop play for the annual St Albans Rotary charity bike ride. The spirit of Dunkirk reigned supreme as more than 1,500 sodden cyclists young and old wound their way round the leafy lanes despite the wet and blustery weather. Organised by t

RAIN failed to stop play for the annual St Albans Rotary charity bike ride.

The spirit of Dunkirk reigned supreme as more than 1,500 sodden cyclists young and old wound their way round the leafy lanes despite the wet and blustery weather.

Organised by the three St Albans Rotary Clubs and sponsored by the Herts Advertiser, the Charity Cycle Ride brings out the best in everyone and, despite being wet through, the riders kept their spirits up and goodwill abounded.

David Jones, president of St Albans Rotary Club, said: "This is the first year I have taken part in the actual ride and I was so impressed with the spirit and atmosphere. And I was surprised at how much fun it was despite the awful weather. There was a great sense of camaraderie in the face of a certain amount of adversity.

"Some of the tiniest tots who were getting very cold sitting on the backs of their parents' bikes had to have an early bath but it was surprising how many very young children actually managed to complete their chosen distances of 10, 20 or 40 miles.

It is not yet known how much money has been raised but the figure to beat from last year is around �44,000.

The money will go to several charities including Herts Action on Disability, Medecins San Frontieres, St Albans Junior PHAB Club and PlayPumps International as well as other charities supported by Rotary.

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