CYCLISTS are being challenged to tackle a route dubbed 'The Beast'.

Over the last two years, the Durham Big Ride has attracted hundreds of serious and amateur cyclists, pedalling routes of between three and 25 miles.

But 2009's event will have a fourth option: of a daunting 50 miles.

Colin Wilkes, one of the organisers, said: "We want all riders to have an enjoyable day and so we have added a testing 50 mile route to the Durham Big Ride day.

"A good number of the riders in previous Durham Big Rides have been high mileage cyclists that think nothing of riding for hours on a Sunday and the Big Ride, although fun, wasn't a major challenge."

The Beast follows the usual Big Ride route west out of Durham before heading towards Tow Law. It includes more than 1,600m of climbing.

Mr Wilkes said: "We must point out that The Best is for experienced, fit riders. As our route testers have already said to us: 'This is a beast of a ride'. Even they were surprised at how challenging the route was."

The third Durham Big Ride will be held on Sunday, September 6. All finishers will receive a T-shirt and a medal.

For more information, visit durhambigride.co.uk