Tacks were placed along the route of Pedal for Scotland at the weekend

Police are investigating after a charity cycle race was targeted by sick pranksters.

Hundreds of cyclists had their tyres burst while taking part in the Pedal for Scotland event between Edinburgh and Glasgow on Sunday (10 September).

Metal tacks were found in the road near Whitecross, and police also said they had received similar reports in Linlithgow.

Around 7,000 cyclists were taking part in the event, which has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for Scottish charities.

A Cycling Scotland spokesman said that nearly 8,000 people had enjoyed a fantastic event, and it was sad that the actions of the pranksters had marred a great day.

He said: “We regret that the action of an idiotic individual or group of people has caused problems for event participants and risked serious injury to people. It has also slowed us down in opening the roads again. The operational team helped remove the tacks as soon as they were reported."

A Police Scotland spokeswoman said: “A number of bikes were damaged, however no cyclists were injured. There were also reports of tacks being placed on the road in and around Linlithgow.

“Inquiries into the circumstances are ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland on 101.”