A sea of coloured jerseys converged on Knavesmire, York, today for the Cyclists' Touring Club National Rally.

About 50,000 riders from all over the country and abroad are expected in York for the club's 52nd birthday.

As well as a 70-mile bike ride today, where York riders showed the tourists the delights of the local countryside, there was a more leisurely 17-mile ride, which set off from Knavesmire.

During the weekend, trade and exhibition marquees will exhibit the latest in cycling technology with a wide range of equipment on sale. The central arena is holding racing events and a vintage bike display.

Tomorrow (June 21) at 9am there will be a service in the Minster for cyclists, followed by a ride back through the city centre.

Cycling experts from the CTC will be available to share their expertise with others all weekend.

Converted for the new archive on 30 June 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.