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A popular north coast road cycling event is returning next weekend following a break due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Cycling in the Straths, which has its base at Tongue Village Hall, is taking place next Saturday, May 27.
The event was first piloted in 2014 and proved a great success, drawing entries from across Scotland. Following a two-year break, it took place annually from 2016 to 2019.
Cycling in the Straths was initially run by the Mackay Country Community Trust which has since been wound up. It is now a fundraiser for Strathnaver Museum, Bettyhill.
Museum development manager Fiona Mackenzie said: “It is a very popular event and there has certainly been a demand to bring it back.”
There are slots for around 100 cyclists who must be aged 16 or over. For more information and to enter, visit the Cycling in the Straths web page. Entries are also taken on the day.
Cyclists can choose from two challenges.
The Strathnaver Challenge is a 68-mile trip leaving Tongue towards Bettyhill and then heading inland through Strathnaver to Altnaharra, along Strathmore and back to Tongue.
The Ben Hope Trial is a shorter but still challenging 48-mile route with riders starting and finishing in Tongue on a circuit via Altnaharra and Strathmore.
Ms Mackenzie said: “Although the event will be timed, it is not a race. Both routes will give riders a challenge with plenty of opportunity to demonstrate cycling skills and stamina.”
Registration is at Tongue Village Hall from 8.15am-10am after which a cyclist briefing will take place at 10.15am. Staged starts begin from 10.30am.
“Tea and biscuits will be available on Saturday morning prior to the start of the event and you’ll find feed stations along the route. Soup and sandwiches will be served at Tongue Village Hall on your return,” said Ms Mackenzie.