CYCLISTS shed their clothes this evening as Southampton played host to the World Naked Bike Ride.

READ MORE: Reasons why Southampton roads will be busier this weekend

It comes after the event was not held last year.

Around a dozen cyclists stripped off at Southampton Common to raise awareness and reignite a debate around the safety of cyclists on the city's roads and cycle lanes.

Barry Freeman, who was set to lead the ride, said ahead of the event: “We ride naked or 'as bare as you dare' to demonstrate the vulnerability of cyclists alongside motor vehicles.

“Our skin and bones are no protection against solid and powerful motor vehicles and the emissions from petrol and diesel exhausts poison the air we all breathe.

“Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) exhaust emissions damage the lungs of children, particularly those in their pushchairs and prams on pavements alongside slow moving traffic.

“We protest for better air quality and for safer conditions and better routes for cyclists.

“Southampton’s cycle lanes are a step in the right direction but riddled with dangers. Clearly not designed by a cyclist.

“In 2022, 85 cyclists were killed on UK roads, 5,602 cyclist were seriously injured. Southampton is part of those unacceptable statistics.”

Cllr Simon Letts, the cabinet member for finance who is leading the council’s efforts in dealing with the financial difficulties, said: “Cycling is good for your health and it’s good for the environment.

“The biggest barrier to getting more people on their bikes is not feeling safe.

“That is why when the opportunity arose this council was first in line for government funding to improve our cycle network.

“Making the roads safer for all road users.

“I urge cyclists to use the network where it exists and leave the busy roads to the motorist.”

Here are the best pictures from the event.