FRUSTRATED motorists have bemoaned traffic chaos caused by an inaugural cycling event passing through Bromsgrove’s countryside on Sunday (September 24), blaming a lack of signage.

Yet plenty of spectators and participants of the brand new 100-mile Velo Birmingham have praised the event, which has helped raise a fantastic £2 million for charity.

Some 15,000 cyclists took on a picturesque course which passed through Upton Warren, Dodford, Chaddesley Corbett, Belbroughton, Clent, Romsley, and Frankley.

Traders had previously told us they would be “completely cut off” due to roads being closed, with motorists also bemoaning road closures on social media.

Driver Jackie Ferriday said: “Personally glad it’s done. I have had to endure cyclists on the roads and groups of 20 which you could not pass.

“Hope it never happens again and well done to all who raised cash.”

Chris Roach added: “The gripes are not with the cyclists, it's with the lack of signage and few diversions in place. Not everyone is local so unaware of the extent of the event."

Yet others praised the event.

Tracie Clements said: “My husband rode the Velo and raised lots of money for his uncle who passed away recently from leukaemia and his best mate whose father has Alzheimer’s.

“Maybe a few more signs would have been helpful but we have known about the ride for a whole year and it is one day.”

Sue Wilkes said: “We were given a year's notice so knew which roads would be closed – plenty of time to plan ahead.”

Tim Johnson added: "How amazing bringing people in from far and wide - this is exactly the sort of business, people and opportunities we need to embrace."

Organisers CSM Active said the challenge was “a truly unforgettable event”.

Executive chairman Jon Ridgeon said: “It was incredible to witness communities right along the route embrace the event and cheer on the thousands of riders.

“This event has the potential to be one of the world’s most iconic cycling events.”

Worcestershire County Council said they will review any plans to bring it back through the county next year.

Cllr Ken Pollock, cabinet member with responsibility for economy and infrastructure, added: "We are aware of the disruption the event caused for some, and there were frustrations among those who faced diversions or had to change travel plans.

“We were pleased to see a largely positive and happy atmosphere in local villages, where there was a good turnout of spectators clapping and cheering riders as they passed.”