A SOUTH Lakeland town is gearing up for its 'biggest family event of the year' this weekend.

The organisers of Sedbergh Cycling Festival are hoping to spread the word about the benefits of cycling.

“The festival will be the biggest family event of the year in Sedbergh and we hope to help improve health and well-being by getting more people active and riding their bikes," one of the organisers, Stuart Wetherell, said. "We have been able to make this a free event due to generous donations from Sedbergh-based organisations and The Roger Stott Community Grant from YDMT, which has been essential in ensuring that this year’s festival will take place.”

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This year, the festival team is working with the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority Access and Recreation team in supporting Wheels for All.

It is a nationally-recognised programme to bring an awareness of cycling opportunities for people of all ages with disabilities and differing needs.

On the first day of the festival on the town's Lupton Field, there will be inclusive cycling activities for all the family, regardless of ability and an opportunity to try a range of adapted bicycles.

Working with British Cycling there are a wide range of cycling themed events and activities, including a 100km Audax - an event where participants attempt to cycle long distances within a pre-defined time- organised by Kent Valley Road Club. Among the other attractions there will also be a vintage bicycle display, wattbike challenges, Go-Ride field events and a bicycle drag race.

There will be a guided mountain bike trail led by Stage 1 Cycles and a mountain bike skills circuit.

Younger cyclists will also be catered for as they will be able to take part in a decorated bike competition.

Bicycle maintenance workshops will show visitors how to take care of their bikes and keep them in first class condition.

For more details, visit www.sedbergh.org.uk/events.