CYCLISTS once again put foot to peddle on some of the UK’s “greatest roads in the country” in a sportive taking in all five dales of the North Pennines.
About 200 riders converged on St John’s Chapel, in Weardale, early on Sunday morning (August 28) for the start of the second annual Roof of England Winking Sheep Sportive.
Despite the wet conditions, keen cyclists took on either a 90, 56 or 30 mile route.
Organiser Cameron Gordon said: “Last year it was a fantastic event, it was the first time we ran it and we had beautiful weather but this year it was fantastic despite the weather.
“The North Pennines has the greatest cycling roads in the country.
“They are wide, have good surfaces, are quiet and are some of the highest.
“They are everything a road cyclist wants.”
Although not a race, Stanhope man Michael Lumb was first to finish the 90 mile challenge.
He arrived back in St John’s Chapel after five hours, 30 minutes and 24 seconds.
“Considering the conditions, which were appalling first thing, it’s an excellent time,” added Mr Gordon.
The sportive was the idea of Mr Gordon, who is the owner of the village’s Chatterbox Cafe, which is fast becoming a hub for the region’s cycling enthusiasts.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here