THE sights and sounds of the North-East in bloom promise to be the highlight of a guided cycle ride through Teesside.

The route, organised by Stockton Borough Council, will take riders along the Castle Eden Walkway to Hurworth Burn Reservoir via the new Durham Gate Bridge.

The 14-mile ride will be led by a team of trained riders and is suitable for cyclists of most abilities, although children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Neil Ellison, the council's team leader for road safety, said: "The ride will allow cyclists to take in the sights, sounds and smells of spring.

"The route goes along the former Castle Eden railway line, visiting the newly-opened Brierley and Tilery Woods and riders will be able to learn a little about the history of Wynyard Park along the way."

The ride starts from Castle Eden Walkway visitor's centre at 10am on Sunday. It will last about two and a half hours.

For information on this and other planned rides in Stockton and the rest of Tees Valley, call (01642) 397749.