ALMOST 900 cyclists took to the streets and hills of East Lothian yesterday to raise tens of thousands of pounds for Scotland’s leading Armed Forces charity.

Poppyscotland’s Sportive annual cycling event was first held in 2014, and hopes are high that last year’s total can be topped.

There were three routes on offer, with riders picking either 45 miles, 68 miles or 102 miles. All three routes took cyclists along the East Lothian Golf Coast Road and then back through hills and countryside.

Katriona Harding, events fundraising manager at Poppyscotland and the event’s organiser, said: “We have had amazing support from both the cycling community and East Lothian Council over the past four years, helping us grow this event and create a fantastic experience for all of our fantastic fundraisers.

“We raised £35,000 last year and are hopeful we can break the £50,000 barrier this time around.

“A massive thanks also to Fred Olsen Renewables. Their support ensured that all of the entry fees, together with additional sponsorship, went directly to Poppyscotland.

“For those who didn’t get on their bikes, there were lots of activities taking place at Prestonpans Community Centre too.”