A TOWN is getting into the spirit of summer as it prepares to welcome the Aviva Tour of Britain.

Barnoldswick is pulling out all the stops by laying on a series of events, which culminate with the cyclists arriving on September 7.

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The riders take in the town on their way to the finish line in Colne.

As well as catching sight of the world’s best two-wheelers, people will be able to join in the fun, which includes Britain in Bloom judging and the annual Barlick Beach.

Cllr David Whipp, chairman of Pendle’s Tour of Britain working group, said: “While we aren’t expecting Team Wiggins to get off their bikes and build a sandcastle, we are aiming for Barnoldswick to be a hub for spectators of the Tour of Britain.

“Anyone travelling to watch the race can stay here and enjoy the additional activities we have organised.

“This is a very good route for Barnoldswick, taking in some local beauty spots as well as the town centre itself.

“We expect thousands to be lining the route and cheering on the competitors.”

TV screens will be available in the town square to watch the action, with cycling promotions also laid on. The Britain in Bloom judging takes place on August 11, with Barnoldswick up against rivals including Henley-on-Thames and Falmouth.

A vertical ‘seascape’ garden is being created from plants and 600 recycled plastic bottles, alongside a more traditional promenade garden theme.

And the sixth annual Barlick Beach will feature a covered sand area, buckets and spades for castle-building and a host of other daily activities.

These include arts and crafts workshops, a surfing simulator and donkey rides.

There will also be treasure trails in local woodland and activities on the Leeds Liverpool Canal.

The beach attracted 15,000 visitors in 2014 and more are expected this year.

Cllr Whipp added: “Barlick Beach is unique as it’s the only one in the world that people flock to when it’s raining because it’s undercover.”