THE Ribble Valley will host an inaugural bike challenge next month.

The Green Jersey SportCross Challenge will take place in the borough and the Trough of Bowland on Sunday, February 2.

The event has been organised by Clitheroe company, The Green Jersey Bikes and Brews, in Taylor Street, and will use roads and off-road routes favoured by Tour de France winners plus Cyclocross and mountain bike champions.

The 30-mile challenge will see entrants riding roads, bridleways and a section of the Gisburn Forest mountain bike centre’s red route.

It will also include a total ascent of 3,000 feet.

Hot food, beer and a bike expo will be available at the race HQ in Taylor Street, along with the chance to watch the World Cyclocross Championship from the Netherlands on the shop’s big screen.

Clitheroe Town Council leader, Mary Robinson, said: “I think it’s fantastic that a Clitheroe business has organised this.

“Anything which encourages and promotes healthily activities must be supported and the town council welcomes this event.

“I hope it’s a success and that a lot of people enjoy themselves on Sunday.

“The Green Jersey Bikes and Brews are a successful company in Clitheroe and it’s good to see them going from strength to strength.”

All entrants will be chip timed for setting personal targets.

Organisers have said that cyclists can use any bike, as long as it is suitable for riding over road surfaces, gravel, board walks, mud, grass and rocks.

The event will start at 8am and the entry fee is £25.

For more information on the event, call organiser Richard Paige on 01200 427630, or visit www.

thegreenjersey.co.uk