Cyclists have taken over the notorious Snake Pass...and they are having the time of their lives

Lashings of winter sun, fresh air, and stunning views. It's not hard to see why cyclists love this route so much.

With demanding climbs and exhilarating descents, Snake Pass is one of the most rewarding rides you can do, and yet very few people cycle along it. Unless the road's closed - like it will be for the next month or so.

The tight bends and undulating road that make it such an enjoyable ride also make it incredibly dangerous for cyclists when cars are about. However, traffic has been banned from the iconic road in Derbyshire for at least a month after heavy rainfall during Storm Franklin saw multiple landslips across the Peak District National Park - affecting the integrity of the road.

One section of tarmac has two metres, pretty much an entire lane, hanging completely unsupported after the ground beneath it crumbled away during the storm.

Officials are expecting the repairs to last for several weeks.

It's unlikely the major road, used by people travelling between Manchester and Sheffield, will be open again before April. But as drivers came to terms with finding alternative routes, many cyclists realised now was the perfect opportunity to give the popular ride a shot.

The Manchester Evening News visited the Snake Pass to speak to cyclists who have taken over the major route.

"It's completely epic," said 40-year-old David Jones, a nurse who was just starting the return leg of his journey back to Sheffield.

"It's such a beautiful day, I saw everyone out over the weekend and was worried it was going to rain today on my day off and ruin the experience. They can take as long as they like, I know it's a really important road between the two cities but the ride is just incredible."

David, like many cyclists who spoke