THE countdown has started for this year’s Sky Ride, with thousands of cyclists expected to take to the streets on July 20.

The event will feature both day- and night-time events as the streets of Bournemouth town centre are transformed into a racing track after dark.

Westover Road, Gervis Place, Exeter Road, Bath Hill and other central locations will form part of an evening race circuit which will see elite cyclists competing at speeds of up to 50mph through the streets.

And there are hopes that the sun will shine during the day as cyclists of all ages and abilities take part in the family event earlier on.

Roads will be closed to cars so everyone on two wheels can enjoy the ride.

At the close of the day, participants will trip the light fantastic with Bournemouth’s first ever nightglow procession, which will wend its way through the Lower Gardens to Gervis Place, Exeter Road, Bath Hill and Pier Approach.

Cyclists will be encouraged to make themselves and their bikes as light and bright as possible, with awards presented to the best dressed participants, those with the most unique and interesting bikes and the best lit cycles.

Deputy mayor Councillor Phil Stanley-Watts, said: “I think it’s a fantastic idea for Bournemouth and I hope it gets lots of families out on their bikes.

“It’s important for everyone to keep active and events like the Sky Ride promote that. I imagine it will be a very popular event that encourages lots of people to come to the town.”

The Sky Ride and circuit racing is free and part of the council’s Getting About initiative.

To find out more visit bournemouth.co.uk