HUNDREDS of people from all over the world descended on Horwich as the Commonwealth Games came to town on a glorious summer's day.

The men's and women's time trial cycling finals attracted families keen to enjoy the carnival atmosphere and sunny weather.

Horwich was brought to a standstill by the event on Saturday, with main roads blocked off and most spectators reaching the Rivington Lane starting line via the park and ride bus scheme.

Many of the people cheering on the cyclists had never visited the North-west before and were amazed by the picturesque scenery and the warm welcome from local people.

Spectators were also impressed by the slick organisation of the event which meant there were dozens of helpers on hand to give directions and advice on the best spot to catch the excitement.

The grounds of Rivington and Blackrod High School proved the perfect spot for a viewing and picnic area with dozens of families enjoying the traditional day out.

The school grounds also doubled up for the cyclists' medal presentation area with a large screen relaying the action to those who could not get near the podium.

Canadian cyclist Clara Hughes proved to be the star of the show, scooping the first Commonwealth Games gold medal to be awarded in Bolton.

Her smiles were matched by the hundreds of spectators who enjoyed a more scenic view by walking to the Rivington countryside to cheer on the cyclists in the middle of the circular route. Pubs including The Millstone and the Yew Tree and the Bay Horse at Heath Charnock proved to be popular meeting points.

Millions of sports fans watching on television around the world would have been impressed with the beautiful scenery as the cameras raced past the reservoirs and Rivington village.

The race was also covered from the skies, with helicopters buzzing overhead all day.

As well as families making the most of a day out, members of cycling clubs from all over the world arrived in Horwich to lend their support. Kenyan cyclist George Ochieng has already become a well known character at the Games after police stopped him cycling on the M61 last week.

However, he was on the right road on Saturday and attracted a huge roar of support after kicking off the men's final.

Hilary Marston, from Great Lever, attended the event with her 22-year-old son, Chris, and his girlfriend, Emma Wilson, aged 18. Hilary said: "It's about time something like this was held up here. People need to know that there is life north of Birmingham!"

David Grimshaw was thrilled to watch the event with wife Kathryn and 10-year-old son, Nick.

He said: "I've lived in Horwich all my life and never dreamt there would be anything like this here.

"It's nice to see something being done in this part of Lancashire to let the world know how beautiful it is and what a warm welcome we provide."

Thousands more were due to descend on Rivington again today for the more cycling action.

Those attending today's mountain biking event were being asked to use the Park and Ride shuttle buses operating from the Reebok Stadium and Horwich Parkway rail station every three to four minutes until 7pm.

Road closures were not expected to be as extensive as over the weekend. Douglas Copse, Green Lane, Quarry Climb, Georges Lane, Pikes Bottom, Leverclough, The Sting, Roynton Road, Snakebite Alley and Knowles Chase will all be closed from 7am until 6.30pm.

The final cycling event will be the road race, which takes place on Saturday.

Buses serving Horwich town centre, the nearest stop for Rivington events, are 573, 575, 577, 125,126, 616, 617.