Cyclists have today kicked off on a gruelling three-day 105-mile trek across the South Downs.

About 250 peddle-pushers began the South Downs Way Challenge, with two teams travelling in opposite directions.

Fundraisers will cycle between Beachy Head, near Eastbourne, and Midhurst hoping to make £50,000 for The Argus Appeal.

Bicycles were loaded outside the newspaper's offices to transport them, and their riders, up to the two starting lines.

Organisers warned they could spend much of the next 72 hours battling with the elements with wind battering the cyclists as they left Beachy Head.

Last year the event raised £35,000 for the Argus Appeal, which distributes funds to worthy causes across Sussex.

There is a video report of the start of the race on our website.