ELITE cycling is returning to a North-East city for the fifth consecutive year.

Eight teams of professional cyclists, and guest teams, will take part one of ten stages of the Pearl Izumi Tour Series race in Durham City on Tuesday, May 27.

Durham County Council will be hosting the Pearl Izumi-sponsored event in partnership with race organiser Sweetspot.

Last year’s winners in Durham – Team Raleigh – will be among the teams taking part.

The other seven teams are Madison Genesis; Metaltek Cycling; NFTO Pro Cycling; Pedal Heaven Colbornes RT; Rapha Condor JLT; Starley Primal Pro Cycling and Velosure Node4.

There are also three guest teams – Haribo Beacon, Achieve Skinnergate Racing and Wheelbase Altura MGD.

The Durham circuit – one of ten rounds in the series – is renowned for being one of the toughest courses due to the hard cobble climbs, narrow streets and tight corners which form part of the route.

Riders can reach top speeds of between 40kph and 50kph on the downhill stretches, which tests the sprint and control skills of the cyclists.

The race starts at 7pm with pre-race action, including live music, beginning at around 4.30pm.

Spectators are advised to arrive early and plan their journey in advance.

Free evening parking will be available at the County Hall car park and at the park and ride sites at Howlands and Sniperley for people wishing to walk into town.

Further information is available at www.tourseries.co.uk or www.thisisdurham.com.