WOMEN across the city took to their bikes to raise vital funds for charity in the South West's first Pedal it Pink event.

More than 350 participants dressed in pink took part in a cycle ride to raise £30,000 for Breast Cancer Campaign, a charity which carries out crucial research.

Starting at Exeter Quay, cyclists could choose from three routes — a 5km family lap, also open to men and children, while those wishing to push themselves that little bit further could select either a half or full marathon distance.

Retired Janet Walker, 66, from Drewsteignton, took part in the marathon event. She said: "Although I am quite a keen cyclist I was a bit nervous.

"I've raised £400 for the charity through the generosity of friends and family.

"I know people who are going through breast cancer at the moment and others who have died from it. I want to do everything I can to help."

Hayley Groves, 37, from Pinhoe, took part in the event with her BT colleagues Natalie Ofield and Karen Stephens.

"We are looking forward to an enjoyable, non-competitive ride," Hayley said. "It will be fun and challenging. It is great to raise awareness of breast cancer and encourage people to cycle, as it is good for you and the environment."

A group of seven from the Dawlish Coasters running group took part. Shop assistant Lorna Richards, of Dawlish, said: "I know a lot of people who have suffered from breast cancer, from neighbours to relatives.

"Therefore I think it is really important to support these types of events and I will be making a personal donation to the charity."

Water engineer Jemma Lock, 24, works in the city and took part with a friend. She said: "I like cycling and we have trained quite hard.

"I am doing this race for my auntie, who survived breast cancer last year. It is an awful illness, but I hope fundraising events like this will help us to beat it."

Breast Cancer Campaign event organiser Karen Lambert said: "Not only is this is the first Pedal it Pink event in Exeter, it is the first to be held in the South West, and we have had an excellent turnout. We are also pleased to see lots of family and friends here supporting.

"It's lovely that the ladies of Exeter have made such an effort to dress up in pink — they look fantastic.

"It is too early to say whether or not we will hold it again next year, but it would be great if we could make it an annual event."

For more about Breast Cancer Campaign, visit www. breastcancercampaign.org