Your chance to meet Olympic and Tour de France cycling legend Bradley Wiggins

The “Ride with Brad” event, hosted at Victory Park in the town, is described as a fun day for all the family and excitement and anticipation is building.

Wiggins will be joined by another cycling gold medallist, too, on the day in the form of track star and Colne Cyclone Steven Burke.

Two demanding routes are offered to “Ride with Brad”, one at 160km and the other at 100km, taking in some of Wiggins’ favourite training routes around Pendle and the Ribble Valley and the number of cyclists registered to take part soared above 1,400 this week.

Staff at The Hoseasons Group in Earby are among those preparing to share in some golden glory too as they join Wiggins on the start line.

The 19-strong team will be cycling on behalf of cottages4you, one of events sponsors and holiday letting brands within The Hoseasons Group, and will be raising money for Pendleside Hospice.

Nick Rudge from The Hoseasons Group said: “It’s been an incredible year for Bradley and his achievements both in France and London have really helped motivate us during training.

“The success of Team GB has really boosted British sport and so it is a great for honour for us to be involved in this fantastic opportunity to get out, enjoy the stunning countryside, raise money for good causes and meet a Tour de France and Olympic champion.”

The sportive is also the launch for the yellow jersey winners’ new charity, the Bradley Wiggins Foundation, which aims to get more children participating in sport.

Ahead of the event, Wiggins said: “The sportive is a great opportunity for both experienced cyclists and those new to the sport to get involved.

“Britain has a fantastic track record in cycling and we look forward to motivating more people to continue the legacy.

“It’s also a great chance for me to thank all those who have provided such incredible support over the past few months.”

Numbers taking part in the ride are expected to increase by the weekend, and possibly up to the limit of 2,000 by the time the first group of riders set off on Sunday at 7am.

On top of hosting the start and finish of the race, the park will be the centre for all sorts of bike related activities for youngsters, many put on by Cycle Sport Pendle.

Organiser Pennine Events is anticipating around 8,000 people to be in Victory Park throughout the day for the cycle show, and between 3,000 and 4,000 people at any one time.

Activities include a test of bike handling skills on an obstacle course, fun based Olympic style races such as team sprint and team pursuit, a Go-Ride race, a cyclo-cross style off-road course and a short ride out of the park on closed roads, all of which are ideal for children.

There will also be a trials area, cycling stunt show and a circus to add to the entertainment and you can have your photograph taken with Wiggins.

For further information, go online at www.bradleywigginsfoundation.org/site/ and on the fun events visit www.cyclesportpendle.org.uk/