CYCLISTS have taken part in a tough two wheeled challenge in picturesque North-East countryside.

Derwent Reservoir, on the borders of County Durham and Northumberland, once again provided the backdrop for British Cycling’s Elite Road Series, with riders reaching speeds of up to 60mph.

The event, dubbed the mini Tour de France, featured men’s and women’s cycling across both days of the weekend, despite blizzard condition and biting winds on Saturday.

The women started with a 32 mile ride on the first day with 68 miles today, while their male counterparts first had an 87 mile uphill circuit, starting in Blanchland, with 96 miles, for the seven lap clincher on Sunday.

Qualification to day two of the race was dependent on crossing the finish line within 15 minutes of the winner crossing the finish line.

The annual Northumbrian Water Tour of the Reservoir road race, now in its eleventh year, has expanded from a single day race to a two stage ‘tour’ event, attracting some of the best riders in the country.

David Hall, of Northumbrian Water, said: “It’s a real coup to have secured yet another premier calendar race around the spectacular backdrop of Derwent Reservoir.

“The event is a huge boost for the area and North-East tourism as brings in a huge number of spectators.”