Some of the North of England's top cyclists will be taking part in the first Bannatyne's Cycle Road Race tomorrow.

More than 50 competitors are expected to tackle the 80-mile course, which involves a seven-and-a-half lap circuit of Darlington and surrounding area, covering Sadberge, Bishopton and Great Stainton.

Former national champion Matt Stephens and current Masters national champion John Charlesworth will be taking part.

Darlington will be represented by cyclists including Rick King, from the Denes area of the town, riding for the Bannatyne team.

He said: "This course is quite a popular one with semi-professional and cycling enthusiasts alike, so it should be an interesting competition."

The race begins at Bannatyne's Health Club, in Haughton Road at 11am.