CYCLING fans are being offered a behind-the-scenes look at one of Bolton's Commonwealth Games venues.

People will be given the chance to tour the cycling events area at Rivington in the comfort of a luxury coach.

Guides will tell the background story of the preparations for the competition as they get an exclusive peep at the area.

The tour will include afternoon tea at the Anderton Hall Centre and a look at the Games base for the Australian Triathlon team.

Commonwealth Games staff, cycling experts, route planners, marshals and a mini army of volunteer helpers have been working to get everything ready for the cycling events which include time trials, road races and cross-country mountain biking.

Each will be taking place against a beauty spot backdrop where the West Pennine Moors sweep down towards the Lancashire plain.

Cllr John Byrne, Bolton Council's executive member for the Games, said it was a unique opportunity for people to get an idea of the huge amount of organisation which went into a world-class event.

He added: "It's a once-in-a-lifetime chance to take a peep behind the scenes."

Commonwealth Games cycling events at Rivington are free to spectators.

Track cycling will be held at the National Cycling Centre in Manchester.

The two-hour tours take place on June 10 and June 26 and cost £5. Fans are asked to meet at Stand Z at Bolton's Moor Lane Bus Station at 1.15pm. Telephone 334400.