ORGANISERS of the Bradford on Avon cycling festival launched the popular bike trail this week and said they hope this year’s event will be the biggest yet.

Ahead of the festival on September 5-6 more than 40 bikes decorated with flowers have been dotted around the town – each with the name of a famous cyclist attached to it.

Families are now being encouraged to take part and note down the name of each cyclist on the trail to be in with the chance of winning a bike from TT Cycles on Frome Road.

Event organiser Cllr John Potter said each of the 41 bikes has been individually decorated by a Bradford business or organisation.

“We’ve increased the number of bikes on the trail and we are hoping that about 800 people will take part in the lead up to the festival.

“The theme of the Arts Festival which is running alongside the cycling festival is Flower Power so a lot of the bikes have taken that on.

“The bike trail and the festival mean we get hundreds of people coming into the town on their bikes. It's just a brilliant weekend.”

During the festival the town will host a range of two-wheeled activities, created for the whole family to enjoy.

Highlights will include a 500m hill climb up Masons Lane and a 25-mile cycle route around the town and neighbouring villages.

Cllr Potter added: “Last year it was very successful. Most people came with their families; it's just a great day out for kids and adults alike.”

Residents are being asked to vote for their favourite bike and the winner will be crowned at Bradford on Avon Flower Show, at St Margaret’s Hall, on September 13.

The amount raised from the event will be matched by apetito and donated to Alzheimer’s Support.

Entry forms for the trail are available for £1 from Piha and Made in Bradford on Avon.

For more information, visit www.bradfordonavoncyclingfestival.co.uk