MORE than 200 riders set off from the Civic Hall, Blackshots, this morning (Sunday, 12 June) when the Thurrock Cycle Marathon returned after a two year break because of the covid pandemic.

Over almost a quarter of a century the event run by the Rotary Club of Mar Dyke Valley has raised approaching a million pounds for charity.

This year's event was started by long time participant and local fundraising champion Stan Wall, who at 95 has finally decided he can no longer ride but still wanted to participate in some way.