MORE than 500 riders took on a beast of a mountain biking challenge today to raise funds for the Great North Air Ambulance Service (GNAAS).

Organisers of The Hamsterley Beast, based in Hamsterley Forest, County Durham, hope the event will raise more than £20,000 for the charity with its biggest year yet.

Now in its third year, the event is more popular than ever.

And this year saw at least 580 mountain bikers flock to the forest to take on the challenge which has already raised more than £25,000 for the charity.

Organiser, Jerry Tatton, said GNAAS is often called to rescue casualties in the forest as ambulances can find it difficult to access some of its trails.

This year’s event was also “bigger and better” with participants being able to look forward to beer, a BBQ and camping on the Saturday as well as performances from live bands too.

Mr Tatton said: “We’ve had a fly over by GNAAS and a tribute to Alex Wright who has done two beasts but passed away.

“His brother in law Jade Calvey is riding Alex’s bike in his memory.”

He added: “There’s been a great party atmosphere last night in the forest with live bands.”