A RECORD-breaking number of riders wound through the Herefordshire countryside as Wye Valley Brewery held their annual Land of Hops and Glory sportive.

Nearly 250 cyclists took part in the event, with participants choosing from the 'Full Pint' route at 56.8 miles and the 'Half Pint' at 37 miles.

The event was celebrated with the launch of Wye Valley Brewery's new commemorative beer, Slipstream Savvy.

Brewed using experimental hops gathered from Herefordshire's finest hop yards along the cycling route, the pale ale was created to mark the sportive and was named by fans in a competition held on social media.

The winning name was suggested by both Elizabeth Harvey of Ledbury and Steve Dent from Worcester.

Vernon Amor, Managing Director of Wye Valley Brewery, said: "We always enjoy hosting the Land of Hops and Glory sportive and this year was the best yet.

"The weather held and it was a delight to see so many people enjoying a complimentary bottle of our limited-edition beer Slipstream Savvy with

the post-event barbecue at our Stoke Lacy headquarters.

"I’d like to thank the team who work so hard to make this event the success it is each year and congratulate everyone who took part, you did Wye Valley Brewery proud."

Toby Fellows, one of the event’s organisers and owner of Let’s Go Velo, said: "The Land of Hops and Glory sportive is always a fantastic way to event kick-start the cycling season and this year didn’t disappoint - it was the biggest one yet.

"We would like to thank Wye Valley Brewery for opening their

doors to host the event and providing a range of their delicious beers for us all to enjoy in the afternoon sunshine once the ride was over."