THE much anticipated 2015 Tour of Pembrokeshire is underway with more than 1500 cyclists leaving St Davids on either the 50, 75, or 100 mile route this morning.

Entrants were gathered from the early hours before the first of the 100 mile riders set off from Oriel-Y-Parc at 7am. They will later cross the finish line on the opposite side of the road at The Grove, St Davids.

Those doing the longer course will climb around 10,300 ft during the day.

1992 Olympic Gold medallist Chris Boardman got things underway with a lap of St Davids before he and others officially set off to tackle the challenging north Pembrokeshire terrain.

And participants have come from right across the UK to take part in what is now undoubtedly one of the biggest dates on the county sporting calendar.

Carol Pierce, 50, of Southampton, said: "I've come down for this event before and I love taking part.

"My friend (Mary Gard) has come from Nottingham and we will be doing the 50 mile route. There is nothing better than cycling in Pembrokeshire."

Meanwhile Neil Owen and Rachel Armstrong, of Neyland, have entered the tour for the first time.

"We are both doing the 75 mile route and we are here for fun," said Rachel at the start line.

"We are looking forward to it."

Prior to setting off, cyclists were able to get advice on their equipment and potential bike repairs from staff at Pembrokeshire Bikes, and during their rides, will be able to stop at various feed stations.

The stations are situated at Pendre Inn, Fishguard (8am-12pm), RNLI Station, Poppit Sands (9.15am-12pm), Boncath Inn, Boncath (9.45am-1.15pm), Gelli Fawr, Gwaun Valley (9.45am-3.15pm), Jubilee Inn, Letterston (9.40am-4.30pm).