Thousands of cyclists descended into Cumbria - The Lake District last week for Cumbria Tourism's first ever Bike Fest - a week-long jamboree of all things biking.

As part of its Month of Adventure*, Cumbria Tourism's Bike Fest successfully laid claim to Cumbria being the first ever English destination to host the prestigious Merida Mountain Bike Marathons.

Around 1,300 cyclists took part in the 25km, 50km, 75km, and 100km marathons at Lowther on Sunday 13 May with the adverse weather conditions adding to the already difficult course, which was so challenging that the riders even had to carry their bikes during certain stages.

The four marathons catered for different levels of ability, with all proving to be a real test of mountain biking skills, and physical and mental strength. By the end of the week, Cumbria's mountainous terrain had brought fresh, new meaning to the term real mountain biking', as confirmed by many experienced riders.

In a challenging stunt area, the M.A.D team weathered the mud and entertained the crowds with some superb displays of jumps, leaps, and balancing acts, are were followed by an appearance from world-class, World Record holder, Jez Avery who thrilled both young and old alike with his repertoire of death-defying tricks in the saddle.

Cumbria has some of the best routes in the UK for both road cycling and mountain biking, with something for everyone - whether a novice or professional, and whether riding alone or as a family.

Cumbria Bike Fest was supported by the Cumbrian cycling industry with many events taking place in and around the county at a number of cycling retailers throughout the week; from Carlisle and Workington to Ulverston and Kendal.

Ian Stephens, Chief Executive at Cumbria Tourism, said: "The first ever Bike Fest has been a huge success, bringing thousands of visitors to the County. Both the riders and spectators had to overcome some challenging weather conditions over the weekend, which in the end, added to the whole atmosphere of the event - think Glastonbury with wheels.

"The positive feedback from visitors has been overwhelming, and we certainly hope that Bike Fest will set the scene for future, similar large-scale events in Cumbria."

Cumbria Tourism worked closely with partners and conservation bodies including RSPB, Natural England and Lake District National Park Rangers to minimise the environmental impact of Bike Fest within the National Park.

*Bike Fest was just one of the many highlights of Cumbria Tourism's Month of Adventure. Other events taking place in the county throughout May include marathon running, adventure racing, walking, geocaching, Nordic walking, mountain climbing and the UK's first ever Via Ferrata, launched as part of Keswick Mountain Festival. For more information, visit www.golakes.co.uk/adventure.