More than 2,000 cyclists will be tackling some of County Durham’s toughest terrain next month.

The Marie Curie Cancer Care Etape Pennines event takes place on Sunday, October 7 and will see competitors from home and abroad take on the challenging 79-mile course through Teesdale, Weardale and communities to the west of Durham City.

Organised by IMG Challenger World and supported by Durham County Council, the event is expected to bring significant economic benefit to the local area, particularly for accommodation providers.

During the event road closures, parking restrictions and diversions will be in place and letters informing residents have been hand delivered to around 2,000 properties immediately on the route.

The letters include contact details for any residents who have further queries. Access for emergency services will be maintained throughout the event.