Entry is open for the 2012 Hit the North, which will take place in Philips Park, Manchester, on Saturday February 4.

Hit the North is a two-hour race on a varied 3.5-mile course, open to all bikes – cyclo-cross, mountain bikes, singlespeed, the choice is yours.

New for the next year is the Hit the North Team Challenge, where the highest three finishers from the same team, club or bunch of mates will win the Team Challenge Trophy*. Just remember to state your team/club/bunch of mates’ name when you enter.

There will also be on-site catering, prizes and trade stands, while all profits go to local charities.

Entry costs £17 and can be made online only at www.hitthenorth.net

*might not be a trophy