A popular cycling event which crosses Alston’s cobbles is set to return next month after it was cancelled last year due to Covid-19.

The Haydon Hundred Cyclo Sportive will take place on June 12.

The ‘Classic’ 100km route will also feature places such as Nenthead and Haltwhistle – there are separate 60km and 140km routes.

Henry Swaddle, a member of the Haydon Bridge Development Trust, which organises the sportive, said: “Last year the event was very sadly missed.

“The great thing about it is that you have cyclists of all levels; there is an appeal for a whole gamut of people who turn out.”

This year’s organisers are encouraging users with e-bikes to participate.

Henry said: “We have had an electric bike enter before, though we probably weren’t aware of it at the time.

“The Challenge Route is well within the range of an electric bike and anyone can do it on one.

“I’m 77 now, so I’ll be at the food station where I’ve been for several years.

“There are entrants in my age group doing the shorter routes though.”

Not only is the event good for the cyclists, Henry said, but the village too. “It’s such a sociable and friendly event and everyone is back together in the village at the end of the day.

“All entrants get a voucher which they can use for a hog roast.

“They can also use the voucher to spend around businesses and shops in the village.”

Places for this year’s event are still open.

For more information, go to www.haydonhundred.co.uk