Thousands of cyclists will pour into York tomorrow for this year's Cyclists Touring Club National Rally.

The two-day event on Saturday and Sunday is expected to draw 50,000 riders from all over the country and abroad to Knavesmire for the British club's 52nd annual gathering.

Trade and exhibition marquees will exhibit and sell the latest and greatest of mountain bikes and racers as well as clothing and accessories.

Meanwhile, spectators at the arena will be able to watch racing events and a vintage bike display and visitors will be able to try their hand on the wacky bikes fitted with everything rom reversed steering to odd-shaped wheels.

On Saturday morning cyclists from the York area will show tourists what the local countryside has to offer during a series of scenic bike rides ranging from a 70-mile excursion starting at 8.30am to a more leisurely 17-mile trip which sets off from Knavesmire at 9.30am.

On Sunday at 9am, a service for cyclists at the Minster will be followed by a ride via the city centre back to Knavesmire.

Throughout the weekend CTC members will be available to give advice and provide information on cycle events taking place later this year.

CTC York Rally spokesman Paul Hepworth said: "You can expect Knavesmire to be a sea of coloured jerseys on Saturday.

"We seem to be attracting people from a lot further afield this year. I have just met a Californian family who found out about it on the Internet and travelled all the way to York from America just for this weekend.

"I would say to any experienced cyclists to come along and use it as a chance to meet up with old friends and make new ones and to anybody who is thinking about cycling to come along and see what you think.

"It will be a great day for everyone and there will be lots of fun for all ages."

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