CYCLISTS across Darlington are getting ready for the first in a series of annual cycle rides.

Darlington Borough Council’s Healthy Darlington team has organised the four tourist trials, designed to challenge serious and experienced cyclists.

The first of the rides, The Round 50, takes place on Sunday, June 4. It takes in 50 miles of County Durham and North Yorkshire countryside and is a great opportunity to begin preparation for the longer rides.

The 70 on Sunday July 2 follows the route created by members of Darlington Cycling Club, through some of County Durham’s most scenic areas. Check in point is at Barnard Castle.

The Castles Ride on Sunday August 6 is a challenging route, stretching 85 miles with some tough climbing over Redmire and Harkerside Moors, linked by castles along the route, checking in at Leyburn. The last ride is Hell of the North on September 3, covering 100 miles from Kirby Stephen to Darlington. Register at www.eventbrite.co.uk/darlingtoncyclerides or email eventsteam@darlington.gov.uk