SAAB Salomon Mountain Mayhem, the biggest event in the mountain biking calendar, pushed competitors to the limit over a testing 24 hours in Eastnor Castle Deer Park.

The internationally-renowned Le Mans style race attracts hundreds of champion mountain bikers, enthusiasts and amateurs plus spectators from all over the world. This year was no exception as thousands of people descended on the picturesque setting.

Even those who were not hardcore riders enjoyed the thrills - and spills - of the race, test-drove the latest bikes from over 30 brands, watched trick riding displays and indulged in some retail therapy.

And to keep spirits high on the Saturday evening, Saab welcomed the Strings of the London Philharmonic to a purpose-built stage. With a backdrop of competitors straining to get up the first of many hills, these skilled musicians performed a full set of contemporary tunes, finishing with an exhilarating firework display to the Dam Busters theme.

After a sticky start, a dusty finish and 24 hours of non-stop biking the winners were:

Elite Men, Scott UK, 26 laps; Elite Mixed, Giant Racing, 24 laps; Mixed, Impsport/Ace RT, 22 laps; Solo Men, Juarez Tinker, 17 laps; Solo Women, Jenn O'Connor, 16 laps; Sport Men, Fat Tread Bikes, 22 laps; Sport Women, Mtb Wales Fancier Ride, 17 laps.