UTV Giro Ditalia

The Gran Fondo bike race is getting underway in Northern Ireland - and it looks set to be the biggest one yet.

Thousands of cyclists are expected to take part in this year's Gran Fondo which encompasses some of Co Down's most picturesque scenery.

Up to 4,000 cyclists, professional and amateur, took part in this year's event across some of Northern Ireland's most beautiful scenery.