Cyclists are gearing up for entries opening for one of Scotland’s most popular road cycling events – Etape Loch Ness.
The sportive, which will take place around the shores of loch on April 26, 2015, completely sold out within hours when it was staged for the first time earlier this year.
Entries will open on Wednesday for those who have pre-registered interest for the 2015 sportive.
Places will go on general release 48-hours later, subject to event capacity.
The 2015 event will be at least double the size of the inaugural Etape Loch Ness, which was limited to 1,250 slots.
The 67-mile sportive will take place on closed roads, allowing cyclists to enjoy the spectacular scenery around Loch Ness.
Event organiser Caledonian Concepts has been working closely with key partner agencies and local communities to ensure the programme of road closures results in minimal disruption.
Event director Malcolm Sutherland said: “The feedback we received from participants in the inaugural Etape Loch Ness was beyond anything we could have hoped for and was incredibly positive.
“It reinforced our belief that this could become a must-do event for cyclists of all abilities.”
The event starts in Inverness city centre, following the northern side of the loch on the A82, passing through Fort Augustus and onto the southern shore back to the Highland Capital.
A spokesman for Transport Scotland said: “We are working with Etape Loch Ness as they take forward their plans for this year’s event to ensure that it operates safely and that any disruption to the trunk road network is kept to a minimum.
“Plans for the race and the associated road closures are at an early stage and those living along the route will be consulted as part of the process.”