THE country's biggest bike ride is set to attract more than 8000 cyclists as Freshnlo Pedal For Scotland gets under way in Glasgow tomorrow.

This year's event will see record numbers cycling the route to Edinburgh, with participants including round-the-world explorer Mark Beaumont and actor Paul Brannigan.

The Herald and Sunday Herald cycling team will be out on all three routes.

The 47-mile challenge will make its way from Glasgow Green through Airdrie, Avonbridge, Linlithgow and Kirkliston, before finishing at Murrayfield Stadium.

The 110-mile sportive will pass through the Southern Uplands and includes a climb equal to twice the Tour de France's Alpe D'Huez.

The nine-mile family ride leaves from Kirkliston Leisure Centre for Murrayfield Stadium.

Tomorrow's forecast is for a bright start with some scattered showers later.

Ian Aitken, chief executive of event organiser Cycling Scotland, said: "It's amazing to have so many cyclists taking part across the Freshnlo Pedal for Scotland rides this year. We had a fantastic start with our Glasgow family ride with over 3400 riders last week.

"It's a testament to cycling growing in popularity and we hope to see this continue into next weekend when our final ride takes place in Aberdeen."

l Pick up a copy of the official Freshnlo Pedal For Scotland picture special in The Herald on Monday.