HUNDREDS of cyclists of all ages took part in a mass bike ride around the North-East countryside.

Up to 700 people set off on the eighth Durham Big Ride from County Hall at 9.30am, today (Sunday, August 31).

The routes of three, ten and 25 miles were completed by everyone from serious riders and families with young children.

Organiser Ed Tutty said: “It has been a great day out. The sun has shone and the wind has kept down so it has been perfect cycling.

“It is not about times or winning, it is purely about the taking part. The aim is to get people out on their bikes and it has been fantastic to see so many people out enjoying themselves. That is what the day is about and that is exactly what has happened.”

“We have had more on the little ride than ever before, which is the three miler.

“There was something like 160 kids on that one, aged two to eight-year-olds.

“We have had whole family groups out on the road without worrying about cars flying past.”

Places are still available for cyclists to take part in The Beast, which is 50 miles of hills around County Durham, on September 14.

For more information go to durhambigride.co.uk or email infor@durhambigride.co.uk