Rutland gears up for CiCLE events

Some of the country’s top professional and amateur riders are expected to converge on Britain’s smallest county, Rutland, in April for two days of gruelling non-stop action and tough competition.

The headline event will be the East Midlands International CiCLE Classic, which takes place on Sunday 26 April.

This gruelling, spectacular and unique race is expected to draw in names from all over the UK and even Europe, to traverse the route between Rutland and Melton (home of the Melton Mowbray Pork Pie).

But for those wanting something a little less hardcore, Rutland is still the place to be that weekend.

On Saturday 25 April the inaugural Discover Rutland CiCLE Tour will take place, aimed at amateur enthusiasts looking for a challenge.

There are two routes to choose from, a 100-mile route and a 50-mile route, which both promising hard riding and short, steep climbs to test your mettle.

The 100-mile route features 4000ft of uphill riding and takes you from the village of Oakham, through Northamptonshire, Leicestershire and Lincolnshire and back to the start.

The 50-mile race promises more tough going and equally spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.

Registration for the CiCLE tour is now open and costs £20, for more info visit www.everydaycycling.com