Glorious sunshine greeted hundreds of riders as they tackled the same route some of the world's best cyclist will ride tomorrow.

Some 900 riders took part in the East Anglia Tour Ride today.

The event gave amateur riders the chance to ride the route of tomorrow's opening stage of the Tour of Britain just 24 hours before the professionals tackle the course.

There was a choice of two routes with those completing the full 200km - the Pro ride - setting off from Ipswich at 8am and riding through Suffolk towns and villages before arriving in Great Yarmouth.

They then snaked their way through Filby, Coltishall, Reepham, Dereham and Mattishall before finishing at the Norfolk Showground.

A shorter route - the Challenge ride - saw dozens of cyclists start at Yarmouth and complete the latter part of the route, also finishing at the Showground.

Chris Sullivan, 61, Roughton, Cromer, who took part in the 92km ride, said: 'I thoroughly enjoyed it. The route was good. The hill near Barnham Broom was tough. The organisation was great.'

Erica Howe, 29, from Norwich, who was one of 15-plus Velo Club Norwich riders tackling the Challenge ride, said: 'There was a great atmosphere and it was so nice to see so many riders out from around Norfolk.'

It was the second time an East Anglia ride has been held in the region.

People of all abilities took part from novices to seasoned club riders. One man tackled the shorter route on a penny farthing.

Riders received a medal and a goody bag at the finish.

Emma Hibbert, from event supporters Adnams, which had a team of 30-plus taking part, said: 'It was brilliant. The route was spectacular and there was such a lovely atmosphere. It's a really brilliant event for Norfolk & Suffolk to have and Adnams are very proud to be sponsoring it.'