On your bike for racing

Oldhamers can try their hand at a host of two-wheeled activities during the borough’s four-day cycling festival.

Whether it’s the thrill of mountain biking, the challenge of the Saddleworth hills or a quiet ride along Rochdale Canal, the extravaganza has something for everyone.

The event kicks-off today when the Halfords Tour Series 2011 races into the town centre.

Spectators can enjoy local school, team and cycle club races before the main events start from 5pm.

There will also be bike stunts and performances in the Halfords Hub Arena in Albion Street.

Councillor Hugh McDonald, Cabinet member for children, young people, families, leisure and culture said: “With the Manchester Velodrome on our doorstep one way and a wide variety of mountain-biking opportunities in the Pennine areas of the borough, Oldham is well-placed for people interested in cycling.

“This festival will feature events at Alexandra Park, along the Rochdale Canal, Crompton Moor and Saddleworth meaning that there is something near by wherever you live.”

Other festival highlights include Wheels for All (tomorrow, noon-2pm) which will give disabled people the opportunity to cycle in Alexandra Park.

There will also be a two-mile off-road ride for adults in Uppermill.

On Saturday, there will be a 10-mile ride from The Radclyffe School in Chadderton to the Manchester Velodrome starting at 11am.

On Sunday, energetic types can tackle a challenging 60-mile on-road ride starting in Diggle, a family orientated off-road trek from Alexandra Park to Daisy Nook or a mountain bike experience at Crompton Moor.

The festival also includes the launch of a brand new Cycling in Saddleworth guide which contains a great selection of days out on your bike from family fun to road touring and mountain bike escapes.

For more information on any of the events, contact Kevin Lanham 07581306394 or email kevin.lanham@cycling.org.uk.

Alternatively, call Paul Bruffell on 0161-770 4360 or email paul.bruffell@unitypartnership.com.

A full list of events, prices, contact details and timings can be found at www.visitoldham.com/site/whats-on/oldham-cycling-festival.