MP joins cyclists for trek across Northumberland

Hexham MP Guy Opperman is joining eight members of Tyne Valley MTB Cycling Club to test-ride a two-day version of a 120-mile route from the west to the north of Northumberland this weekend.
The Sandstone Way, a mountain-biking route from Hexham to Berwick, via Rothbury and Wooler.The Sandstone Way, a mountain-biking route from Hexham to Berwick, via Rothbury and Wooler.
The Sandstone Way, a mountain-biking route from Hexham to Berwick, via Rothbury and Wooler.

The Sandstone Way is a mountain-bike route from Berwick to Hexham, passing through the likes of Wooler, Rothbury, Bellingham and a number of smaller villages and rural hamlets, which was opened last March.

The group is setting off from the new route marker at Tyne Green at 8.30am tomorrow morning and calling in for teas, coffees and lunch at cafés en route arriving at Rothbury early evening where 10 people will stay the night.

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On Sunday, they ride to Berwick, stopping at the Valley Cottage Café at Ingram and Chillingham Castle for refreshments en route before returning to Hexham by minibus on Sunday evening.

In total, it is estimated the group’s spend will be in excess of £1,200 over the two days plus an unknown sum purchasing new equipment and servicing our bikes before and after the ride.

Sandstone Way coordinator, Ted Liddle, said: “The Sandstone Way enjoyed a successful first year with new jobs created and existing jobs sustained because of the economic impact the route has brought to a range of rural businesses.

“I continue to manage the route to ensure user satisfaction, encourage voluntary user pay-back to help sustain the route and to provide a link with landowners and all pertinent agencies. Cycle PAD manages the website and provided business support on the route.”

Visit www.sandstoneway.co.uk for more information about the route.