Stockton Cycling Festival: 6 events not to be missed

An action packed weekend of cycling based fun will spin onto Stockton Riverside on Saturday 13 and Sunday 14 July.

Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council's Cabinet Member for Health, Leisure and Culture, Councillor Jim Beall, said: "Whether you're an experienced cyclist, a novice rider or a family looking for a great time, Stockton Cycling Festival is definitely worth a visit.

"It is always a fantastic weekend whether you choose to watch the action, take part in the free festival activities or simply soak up the atmosphere."

Here's a snapshot of what you can see and do:

Stockton Sportive, Saturday 13 July, 8am-5pm

Departing from Stockton Riverside with a 'Tour de France' style escorted start, the Stockton Sportive offers cyclists of all ability the chance to choose between four routes ranging from 36-106 miles.

The rides take in the beautiful North Yorkshire Moors before returning to Stockton Riverside.

Places are limited so booking in advance is recommended.  Prices range from £20-£30.

For further details and to register visit www.velo29events.com/stockton-sportive

Let's Ride Stockton, Stockton Riverside, Sunday 14 July, 1pm-3pm

Let's Ride Stockton is a two mile, traffic free loop perfect for families, all abilities and every kind of bicycle.

Riders can cycle at a leisurely pace and do the loop as many times as they like, taking in the entertainment along the way.

Simply turn up on the day to join in the fun.

Stockton Extreme Bike Battle, Stockton Riverside, Sunday 14 July, 11am-3.30pm

Watch as some of the very best riders in the UK battle to become the 'King of Extreme Bike Battle.'

Six riders across three disciplines, Flatlanders, BMXers and Mountain bike will take part.

There are three rounds to enjoy, each with 30 minutes of adrenalin fuelled stunts.  A winner will be decided at the end of each slot, and an overall winner will be crowned at the end of the last show.

Youth Racing, Stockton Riverside, Sunday 14 July, 9.15am-11am

Cheer on young riders of all abilities as they race on the same track that the professional cyclists will use as part of the Stockton Grand Prix.

The race is part of the North East Youth League supported by Stockton Wheelers.

Events Village, Stockton Riverside, Sunday 14 July, 8.30am-5pm

The Events Village will be home to a huge variety of free family activities including arts and crafts, a climbing wall, crazy golf, bungee flyers and much more.

There will be cycle displays and stunt demonstrations for spectators to enjoy alongside cycle themed traders and exhibitors offering unique advice, goods and tips as well as a delicious selection of food and drink.

Stockton Grand Prix, Stockton Riverside, Sunday 14 July, 9am-5pm

Watch as some of Britain's top cycling teams and riders compete in this elite road race which is part of the HSBC UK National Road Series.

Races will start and finish on Stockton Riverside and the lap circuit will make its way through the leafy villages of Thorpe Thewles, Carlton, Redmarshall, Whitton and Thorpe Leazes before returning for a gripping conclusion with a finishing circuit through Riverside and Teesdale.

The women's race will start at 9am and the men's race will begin at 1pm.

To see the full Stockton Cycling Festival Programme visit Sports and leisure.