BRITAIN'S only pop-up velodrome is coming to Leigh.

StreetVelodrome is set to bring the excitement and drama of Olympic-style track pursuit racing for everyone to try at Pennington Flash Country Park over the weekend of September 9 to 11 as part of the borough’s Wellfest celebrations.

People of all ages and ability levels are invited to take part and experience the excitement of sprint cycling in a fun, friendly and safe environment.

With dedicated schools and corporate sessions scheduled for the Friday, visitors to Pennington Flash on the Saturday and Sunday will be able to test their pursuit skills with free have-a-go sessions and tuition.

ProRider coaching will be provided, along with free access to bikes and helmets, and there will be challenges and leaderboards on both days and medals handed out to those worthy of a yellow jersey.

Completing the weekend activities, some of the borough’s top amateur riders will compete ahead of a showcase race to round off the festival on Sunday, ensuring that it ends in top gear.

There will also be a host of fun family activities to enjoy during the Saturday and Sunday.

Carl Thompson, StreetVelodrome Series director, said: “Cycle sport is vibrant in the area, which should see some great cycling talent on track, but we are also reaching out to those new to the sport to come to enjoy the fun and to take part for free.”

Organised by Inspiring healthy lifestyles as part of Wellfest, the weekend has been made possible thanks to sponsorship from NPS, DFC Direct Debit Services, Alliance Leisure, Wigan and Leigh Homes, Link Contracting and Stephensons Solicitors.

Pete Burt, managing director at Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles, said: "StreetVelodrome is open to anyone who fancies spinning those pedals, whether it is just for fun or to test their pace against their friends and family.

"We hope residents will embrace Wellfest and participate in a wide variety of community events that encourage everyone to make positive changes to their lifestyle and improve their physical and mental wellbeing."

StreetVelodrome is open to the public from 10am to 6pm on the Saturday and from noon to 3pm on the Sunday. There is no need to book to take part.

The showcase event finale will take place from 3pm to 4pm on the Sunday.

To find out more about the borough’s first festival of wellbeing visit wellfest.org.