All set for the 24th Viking Challenge at Redmile, the UK's largest off-road cycling event

Over 1,000 are preparing to conquer the refreshed off-road cycling fundraiser in the heart of the Vale of Belvoir.

The event takes place on Sunday (October 7), at 8.30am, from Redmile Primary School.

Entrants have the option to complete a 30 kilometre route or 55 kilometre circuit to raise funds for the school and REACH, a charity that supports people with learning disabilities in Nottinghamshire.

In its 24th year, the Viking Challenge is the UK’s largest off-road cycling event, with entrants travelling from across the UK to take part. It is staged by hundreds of enthusiastic volunteers.

Known for its challenging circuit across the historic Viking Way, participants are treated to chocolate, bananas, cake and pork pie across the route. The combination of mud, bikes, cake and pie is too good to resist!

Jane Noad, chair of the organising committee, said: “We have listened to all the feedback from our riders after last year’s event, and have doubled our efforts to make this Viking Challenge the best it has ever been.

“There is a new route - which means fresh challenges for those that are looking for a greater workout, plus we have added in an extra pub stop for those that need extra refreshment.

“We have kept to the ethos behind the Viking Challenge and tried to cater for everyone as this is a charity event raising funds for two worthwhile causes.”

For more information and how to enter, visit www.vikingchallenge.org.uk

The last chance for online registration is October 4, but people can still sign up on the day.