A LONE piper played for hundreds of cyclists at Fort Augustus as they rode in the first Etape Loch Ness.

Hundreds of people took part in the event, a 67-mile route from Inverness which also passed through Drumnadrochit, Invermoriston and Dores before returning to the finish line in the Highland capital.

Event director Malcolm Sutherland said: "To see over 1000 riders cycling the route of this iconic landmark and against the backdrop of some of the most stunning scenery in Scotland was incredible. I think it gave everyone goosebumps."

The fastest male rider was Alan Dean from Edinburgh Racing Club in 2.55.05 while the fastest female cyclist was Lynne Fraser from Deeside Thistle in a time of 3.26.21

There was also a special prize for the quickest riders to the top of the Glendoe summit.