STUDENTS from across Darlington are preparing to get in the saddle and battle it out to be crowned the town’s cyclo-cross champions.

The grounds of Longfield Academy will be transformed into an off-road bike track as the Cyclo-Cross North-East (CXNE) series descends on Darlington on Saturday, October 18.

Cyclo-cross is a winter sport where competitors can take part on any type of bike – from mountain bikes to a specially adapted road bike – and the 1.3mile course features varied terrain, including sandpits and grassy flat sections, as well as hurdles and steps.

The event kicks off at 10am with the inaugural Darlington Schools Championship, where the winning team will take home the CXNE trophy and individual winners will receive British Cycling medals.

Juniors, veterans and ladies races will be held at 11.30am, followed by the under 14 and 16s at 12.30pm.

An under-12s race will be held at 1pm and the region’s senior men will race at 2pm.

Organiser Keith Murray said: “Since the Tour de France we have seen a massive increase in the number of participants.

"The rules allow you to compete on any type of cycle, as long as you wear a helmet.

"While there are specialist machines and some professional riders, low entry fees and the accessible venues means participation numbers have boomed in the North-East in recent years."

Races are open to all abilities and ages. To enter visit britishcycling.org.uk, cxne.org.uk or register on the day.

The event is free to watch and refreshments will be available.

For more information call Mr Murray on 07793-652-198 or email m15kwm@me.com