There was no Father's Day lie-in for Norwood-supporting dads who joined the charity's annual junior bike ride for seven-to-14-year-olds and their families.

The start time was 10am for the 450-plus riders at the Haberdashers' Boys' School in Elstree as they set off on a 10-mile off-road course.

First-time entrants included nine-year-old Jack Adler from Mill Hill, whose father Dan also took part. Jack "really enjoyed the ride and also spending time with my dad. I wanted to do something to help other children who aren't as lucky as me and I hope I have made a difference."

Another father and son team was Mark and Jonah Hirschel from Edgware. Jonah, a Rosh Pinah Primary pupil, said at the start: "I have been practising and am feeling really good. I am especially looking forward to getting muddy."

The event also featured tandem teams including Norwood service users. Among them was Ian Spellman, 46, who rode with Alex Pomerance. Mr Spellman was in Norwood residential accommodation for years but with the charity's support now lives independently in Finchley. A keen cyclist, he has ridden in 12 international fundraisers.

Sponsored gifts and prizes included cycle tops and goody bags and the event raised £40,000.