CYCLING enthusiasts with a passion for racing up steep hills are invited to a 'King of the Hill' competition on Saturday, at the National Trust's Cotehele.

Organised by The Plymouth Corinthian Cycling Club, races for men, women and children are planned throughout the day. Cyclists will ride up Cotehele's one kilometre tarmac hill, which will be shut to traffic but open to spectators.

Joe Lawrence, Cotehele's head ranger, said: 'This is going to be quite an event for both the participants and spectators. The hill can be quite deceiving in its steepness and there are going to be some very puffed-out cyclists by the time they get to the top. The good ones will have to do it several times throughout the day.'

Mr Lawrence is hoping that it will become an annual event.

Registration will be begin at 8am on Cotehele Quay and races will start at 10am. Road, time-trial, retro and mountain bikes are all welcome. The format will be a timed solo qualification followed by a dual eliminator. Entry is £7, plus a 60p booking fee.

The event is free for spectators who will be able to park up near Cotehele House; but parking on the Quay will be reserved for participants, family and friends.