Pupils get chance to join cycle race teams

CHILDREN will get the chance to be mascots for Thursday’s thrilling cycle race around Oldham’s streets.

Each of the 10 Halfords Tour Series teams have invited children from local primary schools to the pre-race preparations and one lucky mascot will also be able to join their team at the end of the race on the winner’s podium.

Cycling fans will get the chance to see the riders close up as they warm-up and sign autographs and photographs at the presentation podium in High Street before the race — and pupils will get the chance to ride. the professional race circuit before the elite cyclists take to it in the evening. Fans can also win a signed Halfords Tour Series jersey by logging on to www.visitoldham.com and leaving their details. Oldham Council is also launching a new pocket-sized visitor guide Cycling in Saddleworth which contains seven different cycling routes.

The Halfords Tour Series 2011 main race, starts at 7pm.