KEEN bike riders were busy getting in shape yesterday for the launch of a cycling festival.

The riders, from Darlington, were making their final checks for the annual Border Bike Ride fundraising challenge, which will mark the launch of the town's cycling festival a week on Sunday.

The festival is expected to draw hundreds of riders from around the region, and will run until September 1, when some of the region's best cyclists set off on the Hell of the North - otherwise known as the C2C cross-Pennine cycle route.

The main Border Bike ride event will take place next Sunday, when competitors can take part in either 25-mile or 50-mile rides.

The 25-mile route skirts the border of Darlington, while the 50-mile ride takes cyclists into the countryside surrounding the town.

Entry, which include refreshments, is £5 for adults and £3 for children. Registration will take place from 9.30am in the Market Square, with the event starting at 10am.

All proceeds from the event will go to St Teresa's Hospice, in Darlington.

A full list of events taking place during the festival is available from the town's Dolphin Centre, or by calling (01325) 388427.