A MASS cycle ride is to be held along the route of the Tour de Yorkshire – which takes in the Worth Valley and South Craven – just hours before professional cyclists race through.

Thousands of people are expected to saddle up for the sportive event, on May 3.

Three distances will be on offer – 50, 100 and 140 kilometres.

Each will feature much of the Tour route and will include challenging climbs.

The 100km ride encompasses Haworth, Laycock, Sutton and Silsden, while the longest event also tackles Oxenhope Moor.

Timings will be available online.

Nick Rusling – of Human Race, the organisation staging the event with partners ASO and Welcome to Yorkshire – said "We have the ability to deliver something unique for thousands of cyclists on May 3 by combining the aura of the Tour de Yorkshire and Tour de France legacy in combination with the hospitality and stunning roads of Yorkshire.

"For sportive riders of all abilities, this will be an experience you won't forget."

The event is being supported by five-times Tour de France winner, Bernard Hinault, who will be offering tips to the sportive riders.

Visit letouryorkshire.com/sportive to pre-register for the event. Entries will officially open next Wednesday.