FOR anyone hoping to get fit in the New Year, there is an event being held on Dartmoor this summer that will provide an ideal target point.

The Dartmoor Classic is now in its fifth year — a hugely popular mass participation challenge which is rapidly establishing a reputation for helping turn occasional bike riders into accomplished leisure cyclists.

To be held on Sunday June 26, this Mid-Devon Cycling Club promotion is a big exciting occasion, which attracts all ages and abilities from throughout the UK and far beyond.

Classified as a cyclo-sportive, the event awards unique granite trophies to all finishers and medals for those beating set time standards, but it is not a race. Ken Robertson, event organiser, said: 'The objective of a sportive is to provide a highly organised and supported ride which is capable of being undertaken by a very wide variety of participants.

'Beginning with some very short outings in the early weeks of the year, individuals can start to build up their levels of stamina by gradually increasing the mileage of their preparation sessions.'

The Dartmoor Classic includes a 65 mile route or a 106-mile challenge, starting and finishing at Newton Abbot.

Any type of roadworthy bike may be ridden and hard shell helmets are compulsory.

For information or to book a place, click on http://www.dartmoorclassic.co.uk">www.dartmoorclassic.co.uk