PEOPLE are being offered a chance to work off their Christmas excesses by taking part in a 14-mile bike ride.

The event, which will take place from 10.30am to 3pm on Sunday, January 15, is being staged by Hartlepool Borough Council's countryside wardens and countryside access staff.

The traffic-free route will take riders from the Hart to Haswell Walkway, on to route one of the National Cycle Network and down to Wynyard Woodland Park.

As free transport is being provided, people wanting to take part must book on (01429) 853325.

The meeting point is the entrance to the Hart to Haswell Walkway, off Ocean Road, at Hart Station. Parking is limited, so participants are asked to respect the needs of local residents.