CYCLISTS are being urged to take part in an event through the region.

Durham Big Ride organisers hope to attract about 1,800 riders – slightly more than last year – for the three, ten and 25-mile routes on Sunday, September 2.

They also hope for a big turnout the following Sunday from more experienced cyclists when The Beast, a 50-mile ride, is staged.

Both events will start and finish at County Hall, in Durham City, and include roads and cycle paths.

Race director Ed Tutty said: “The aim is to get people to enjoy what is probably one of the best parts of the country on a bike.

“It is very safe, so people can take their time. It is not a race, so you can enjoy it in an hour or three hours, whatever.”

Mr Tutty said the event was becoming an established feature in the region’s cycling calendar, and said he hoped The Beast would attract 1,000 riders, up from 700 last year.

A club that gives disabled people the chance to cycle with able-bodied riders on adapted bikes will take part. The Gateway Wheelers, which meets at Chester-le-Street, has taken part in The Big Ride since it started.

Spokesman Martin Forester said club members and volunteers took part in the various distances and had 26 people in last year’s event.

Mr Forester, who also did The Beast, said: “The Beast isn’t called The Beast for nothing. It certainly is a challenge.”

A single entry costs £17 and a family of two children and two adults costs £40.

People can book places and find details of The Durham Big Ride at durhambigride.co.uk