THIS YEAR'S Tour O The Borders cycle sportive took place on Sunday.

And it was deemed a huge success.

Now established as one of Scotland’s top cycling events, it started early on Sunday morning from Tweed Bridge in Peebles.

Riders from all over the UK took part and cycled the 120km closed road route around the Borders with the David Carruthers from Dumfries completing the course in an impressive three hours and seven minutes to be named fastest rider.

The event raises money for many charities but was partnered this year with Kidney Research UK.

In addition to the cycling, an event hub was held on Tweed Green with food and refreshments.

Event Director Neil Dalgleish told the Border Telegraph: “From our perspective it was a huge success, with perfect weather and a great feeling of excitement around the event born out of two years waiting.

“It was wonderful to welcome all the cyclists back here and with such a beautiful cycling route, everyone went home very happy.”

Almost incident-free, very few accidents or people coming off their bikes, and very few mechanical problems either.

Riders came from all over the country for what has been unanimously described as one of the most beautiful cycling events in the UK.

“I felt incredibly proud of Peebles and the Borders yesterday, and by that I mean the town, the countryside, the roads and perhaps most of all the people who either helped make this happen or cheered the cyclists on and made them feel so welcome.

“Visitors went home envious of our community and the cycling gold on our doorsteps.”

His views were echoed by many positive comments on social media.

Susanne Reid from Ireland posted: “Top event, and the weather was just perfect. Big shout out to all the organisers, marshals and locals who cheered everyone one.”

Alan Davies from Wales wrote: “Top event, top organisation and top marshals and volunteers and whilst I am at it, top scenery and top weather! Well worth the 5-hour drive from North Wales.”

Graham Macnab from Fort William posted: “Brilliantly organised event! Thank you so much to all the volunteers! Great route! Made the long trip from Fort William worth it!”

Jason Drew from Harrogate added : “Awesome ride and world class support from the team and the locals around the route. Will be back again. Thank you to all for making it the day it has been. See you next year!”