County Durham to cash in when thousands of cyclists descend on Teesdale (From Darlington and Stockton Times)

County Durham to cash in when thousands of cyclists descend on Teesdale

11:30am Sunday 3rd March 2013 in News By Stuart Laundy, Reporter (Barnard Castle & Teesdale)

THOUSANDS of cyclists are expected to descend on County Durham later this year for what is being billed as one of the sport's toughest challenges.

The Marie Curie Cancer Care Etape Pennines will take place on October 6, starting and finishing on the outskirts of Barnard Castle, County Durham.

Last year's event, which set off from Ushaw College, attracted 1,400 cyclists – this year 800 have already signed up and as many as 3,000 are expected to take part.

Organised by IMG Challenger World and hosted by Durham County Council, the cyclists will tackle a 78-mile undulating course.

Councillor Maria Plews, cabinet member for sport and leisure, said: “Last year, the Etape Pennines race brought significant economic benefit to County Durham, with 1,941 people attending the event – the majority of whom were from outside the county.

“Events such as this really give us the opportunity to show visitors what our county has got to offer and hopefully many will be tempted to come back again.”

A study following last year’s event found that the total economic benefit to the county was estimated at £235,961, with more than £74,200 being raised for Marie Curie Cancer Care.

This year, 400 free places have been offered to those willing to raise £250 for Marie Curie Cancer Care while general entry is £63.

For more information go to www.etapepennines.co.uk