More than 27,000 cyclists took part in the annual London to Brighton bike ride yesterday and arrived thinking: What happened to flaming June?

The 56-mile ride, which is organised by the British Heart Foundation, takes an average of seven hours.

The fastest, who started at 6am, began arriving at the finishing line in Madeira Drive at 9am but most preferred a more leisurely ride in dismal, overcast conditions more reminiscent of October.

Richard Shattock, of Gatwick-based Trade-Air, took eight hours to complete the course although his team did stop for an hour's lunch.

Cyclists began the ride at Clapham Common, south London, before heading towards the coast and across the highest point at Ditchling Beacon, at 813ft, and finally into Brighton.

Many looked tired but elated as they crossed the finishing line and collapsed on the beach for some well-earned rest.

Julie Sorrell, head of events with the British Heart Foundation, said: "It has gone very well. Everyone at the start was away by 9.45am."

She said the 27,000 places had all been filled within a few weeks of the foundation accepting applications.

It is estimated another 10,000 participants join in unofficially.

Ms Sorrell said: "Last year's event raised just under £2.5 million and we hope to be able to equal that this year."

It was the 27th annual cycle ride.

The first was in 1976 when 30 friends cycled from Hyde Park in London to Brighton seafront.

About 530,000 riders have taken part in the official event since 1980, cycling a total of more than 29 million miles.