ELITE cyclists will compete in a race around Stockton town centre on Friday.JULY10

This year’s Stockton Cycling Festival will kick off with an evening of racing in the Town Centre with Olympic cyclists taking part in the race which is part of the British Cycling Elite Circuit series.

Members of the public are invited to watch the opening race which will see elite cyclists speed through the newly refurbished High Street.

The event begins at 6pm on Friday with the main race starting at 7pm and is free to watch.

Stockton Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Arts, Leisure and Culture, Councillor Norma Wilburn, said: “Come to Stockton Town Centre on Friday to experience the exhilarating atmosphere as top cyclists ride at pace through the town – it will take your breath away.

“Next year, Stockton will host the British Cycling National Road Championships at the heart of the Cycling Festival and we want the people of Stockton to show cycling’s top flight what a great atmosphere we can generate.”

On Saturday, the Stockton Endeavour Sportive will see people of all ages and abilities cycle from the Riverside across the borough and onto the North Yorkshire moors. On Sunday, there will be an abundance of activities for the whole family including RideStockton for all ages and ability.

To find out more and see the full festival programme, visit stockton.gov.uk/cyclingfestival Several road closures will be in place at various times throughout the weekend to allow the races and rides to take place. For full details visit stockton.gov.uk/roadworks