A "world-class" mountain bike event stretching 340 miles is set to visit Welshpool and Rhayader next year.

Described as Wales' newest and most ambitious mountain bike event, the Wales360 was launched at Aberystwyth Cycle Festival last weekend as a six-day tour which will see hundreds of riders head through the Mid-Wales hills on their way to the finish line in Aberystwyth.

Organisers say the event, which will kick off on July 2019, will re-enforce Mid-Wales reputation as a world-class mountain biking destination, with its trails and natural riding regularly named among the UK’s best.

The Welsh Government have added their backing, with Minister for Culture Tourism and Sport Lord Elis-Thomas saying the event would be a showcase for Mid-Wales.

"I’m delighted that the Welsh Government is supporting this event. It promises to be an exciting six days and a great showcase for Wales’ magnificent landscapes and the adventures which can be had here," he said.

"It’s also a great event for our Year of Discovery in 2019. Participants will have the opportunity to see more of Wales and our world class trails, as well as discovering what they can achieve during this endurance event next year."

Event Ambassador Richard Parks said: "Wales has some of the best adventure terrain, facilities and mountain biking trails on the planet.

"From the longest to the highest, I’ve been privileged to experience some of the world’s best off road cycling routes. I’m proud to be part of Wales360 and super excited to race in the inaugural event in 2019. It’s going to be awesome!"

Chief Executive of Welsh Cycling Anne Adams-King said: "We are absolutely delighted to be working closer and closer with SweetSpot Group. Our Welsh Mountain Bike Cross Country Series is growing each year, which truly highlights the popularity and increase of interest within the discipline. To bring a large scale event like Wales360 to Wales will be an incredible opportunity to not only further showcase the beauty that Wales has to offer as a world-class mountain bike destination; but also inspire others to get involved to try the discipline.

"We look forward to seeing the event unfold next year and supporting the riders as they compete in the first of many Wales360s!"