TWO bike rides are being held in Hartlepool during the summer in an attempt to get people out of their cars and on to their bikes.

The first event is aimed at families and takes place on June 29, at 11am.

It starts at the Historic Quay in the Marina, and cyclists will stop off for a picnic at Teesmouth National Nature Reserve, before completing the ride on the Sustrans National Cycle Network back to the quay. The ride is about seven miles long. Cyclists must bring their own picnic.

The second event, called Sea to Countryside, takes place on August 3. The 15 mile ride is a bit more difficult, and gets under way from the Historic Quay, at 2pm.

It follows a route through Seaton Carew, Dalton Piercy and Hart Village before returning to the quay.

Caine Spence, local transport plan co-ordinator at Hartlepool Borough Council, said: "Previous bike rides have been very successful and this time we have trained marshalls to lead the rides.

"There is a significant network of cycleways throughout Hartlepool, and the rides will give people an opportunity to familiarise themselves with the routes."

The events are part of a series of more than 30 bike rides which are taking place all over the Tees Valley area.

There is no need to book. For further information, contact (01429) 523524.