BURY is gearing up for a national cycling celebration this weekend - and local two-wheelers are urged to join in.

Saturday signals the official opening of the National Cycle Network, part of which winds its way through the borough. Around 60 cyclists are making their way from London to Preston to mark the occasion, following the National Cycle Route 6.

They are expected at Drinkwater Park in Prestwich at noon, heading for Radcliffe before pedalling their way to Burrs Country Park in Bury for a mayoral reception and lunch. Afterwards the group will head off, via Greenmount and Ramsbottom, on the next leg through Rossendale.

The network was built by the sustainable transport charity Sustrans, following a Lottery grant of £43.5 million. The first phase of 5,000 miles was opened in July 2000 and the remaining 5,000 miles are being opened this year.

Councillor John Byrne, executive member for environment and transport, said: "It would be wonderful if local cyclists turn out to meet them and then accompany the group as it makes its way through our borough.

"This is a real occasion for celebration. Anyone visiting countries such as Germany, Denmark, Holland and even Sweden and Switzerland will have seen how having more people take more journeys on foot and bike improves the quality of life in their towns and cities.

"The UK National Cycle Network is a great achievement and an important contribution to the encouragement of sustainable travel here."

The celebrations culminate in the 2Move Cycling Festival at Preston on Sunday.