A HISTORY tour with a difference will take cyclists on a heritage ride through Stockton.

The road safety team at Stockton Borough Council is running the first in a series of guided cycle rides next week.

The rides, which are in conjunction with sustainable transport organisation Sustrans, will begin next Saturday from the Tees Barrage at 10am and last about two hours. There will be similar runs each month until the end of September.

The first eight-mile ride will take in three historic Anglo-Saxon parts of Norton and Billingham - Norton Church, Billingham Beck Valley Country Park and Billingham Church.

While an adult must accompany children under 16, the guided rides are open to anyone with a bike and will suit most levels of fitness and ability.

Everyone taking part will be led by specially-trained ride leaders who will tell people more about the history of the region.

Neil Ellison, road safety team leader, said: "Not only is cycling environmentally friendly and good for fitness, it is also great fun.

"People should come along and learn more about some of the heritage and historical sites, and how they can be easily reached by bike."

Anyone interested in taking part in this, or any of the other planned rides, should call Neil Ellison or George Callaghan on (01642) 397712.