UK's top cyclists compete in the Rochdale Grand Prix 2008

Rochdale Grand Prix 2007

Some of the country's finest athletes are gearing up for a trip to Rochdale on 2 July as the town's Grand Prix race returns for a third year.

The national profile of cycle racing is now higher than ever with British successes at the World Track Cycling Championships earlier this year and a high quality field of elite racing cyclists is expected to take part in the Rochdale Grand Prix.

The event is organised by Rochdale Council and supported by a number of local organisations and groups. The main sponsor for the event is the Kingsway Business Park.

The circuit will be set up with the start/finish line on South Parade with the route circling the town centre. A number of local roads in the town will be closed as a result.

Community based events will take place and are expected to include school teams of young cyclists competing for skills prizes on South Parade, with support from British Cycling. There will also be stalls, information and displays, possibly local dance teams and lots of fun and games all situated on The Butts in the town centre.

The event starts at 4pm on Wednesday 2 July on The Butts, with a skills competition from 6pm on South Parade. Racing will start at 7pm with the Elite race between 8pm and 9pm.

Cabinet member for environment and sustainability, Councillor Wera Hobhouse said: "Over two thousand spectators lined the town centre course last year - this year we'd like to see an even bigger turnout. You don't have to be a cycle racing fan to appreciate the speed and power of the athletes, this event is guaranteed to be a great family evening out!"

For more details

Email: la.21@rochdale.gov.uk

Tel: 01706 924928.