HUNDREDS of cyclists are gearing up to take part in a ride around County Durham.

The Durham Big Ride, which starts and finishes in Durham City, is taking place on Sunday, September 4.

The event is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year and hundreds of riders, from toddlers on balance bikes to pensioners are expected to take part.

Participants can cycle one of three routes, including a little ride of three miles, medium ride of ten miles and big ride of 25 miles.

Organiser Colin Wilkes, who has been involved from the start, said: “With the success of the Olympic cyclists we are expecting a bigger turnout this year from aspiring cyclists. I’m hoping to see that reflected in the event.

“What’s brilliant is we have a family of Durham Big Riders who have been involved since the start and have taken part in one of the rides every year. It’s nice to have seen the same faces over the ten years.”

The ride is aimed at getting as many different people involved as possible,

Mr Wilkes added: “We try and cater for all abilities on Durham Big Ride and also we always promote the idea of just getting out on a bike – not racing around trying to be the fastest. To that end we have never put any official timing on the rides and everyone get the same t shirt and goodies at the end.”

This year it will be started by Durham mayor Eddie Bell and his young assistant Alex Snell, 9, from Meadowfield, who was due to take part in the little ride but had to withdraw after breaking his wrist.

His mum Karen said: “To say he was disappointed is an understatement and when I spoke to the organisers of the event they found a way of him being involved. Alex is now looking forward to the day again, this time waving the flag to start both the Big Ride and Little Ride.”

This year’s event will feature music from Bearpark and Esh Brass Band and children’s entertainment at County Hall, in Durham - where the ride starts and finishes.

All the riders will also get a quick sports massage at the end from local firm Durham Chiropractic to ease any aching muscles.

Online entries are now closed but people can still sign up on the day. It costs £25 for adults and £10 for children.

Visit www.durhambigride.co.uk for more details.