THE parade route for a big bike rally has been put through its paces, ready for a major event this weekend.

More than 100 bikes of all shapes and sizes will be at Stockton's Preston Hall as a century of cycling innovation is marked in its biannual Bygone Bikes Rally.

Everything from penny-farthings to racers, tandems to tricycles and hobby horses to choppers are being brought together for the event, organised by the Yorkshire Bygone Bikes Group.

And to make sure all was in order, group member Mr Bob Hutchinson and his 11-year-old grand-daughter Holly Henderson saddled up to try it all out before the big day.

The whole collection, ridden by members wearing vintage costumes, will parade around the park both tomorrow and Sunday morning, weather permitting.

Stockton council's museums and heritage officer Mr Mark Rowland-Jones said: "The Bygone Bikes Rally is always a popular and happy event.

"The exhibitors are always willing to share their knowledge about cycling history and sometimes let visitors take the saddle themselves."

The rally starts at 10am and runs to 5.30 on Saturday and Sunday. Admission is included in the normal entrance fee of £1.20/60p.