OLYMPIC gold medalists and world champions are among those gearing up to take part in the legendary Milk Race.
The event is making a comeback after for 20 years and will come to Nottingham on Sunday, May 26.
The famous names taking part in the 1.2km city centre stage of the race include Paralympian Dame Sarah Storey, London 2012 gold medalist Ed Clancy and former Tour de France stage winner Magnus Bäckstedt.
Nottingham-based Team Raleigh is entering a five-man team including Graham Briggs, a former national circuit championships winner.
The women's event will boast a similarly strong line-up including Dani King, another London 2012 Olympic gold medallist, as part of Team Wiggle Honda, along with fellow team pursuit world champion Elinor Barker.
Paralympic icon Dame Sarah Storey, who is expecting her first child in June, will be present on the day and is hoping to participate in one of three non-competitive public rides that are happening earlier in the day.
Competitor Dani King said: "The return of the Milk Race is a huge boost to the British cycling calendar, and I'm delighted to be racing in the first-ever women's edition. The Nottingham circuit looks great so I can't wait for the race in a few weeks' time."
The race has been organised by the Dairy Council and Registration for amateur cyclists to ride the same circuit as the elite racers has now opened.
Chairperson Sandy Wilkie said: "When we took the decision to bring back the Milk Race, our aim was to re-establish it quickly as a serious cycling event, and a world-class field is crucial to do that.
"It's great to see so many top names signing up, and the event promises to be a hugely memorable occasion."
Members of the public can take part in one of three events on the day:
The Advanced Ride: for cycling enthusiasts who want to tackle the course in the same conditions as the elite riders.
The Community Ride: suitable for cyclists of all levels and for children aged 8 and above.
The Family Ride: suitable for families with young children.
Councillor Jon Collins, leader of Nottingham City Council, said: "We are proud to be hosting the Milk Race this year and want to encourage everyone across Nottingham to play a part in this legendary cycling event.
"There is a race to suit all abilities, whether you're an advanced rider or want to share the day with your family."
"This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to ride a circuit around the city centre where elite racers will also ride."
People can choose a ride and sign up for the event at www.themilkrace.com with a small registration fee of £4 for adults and £2 for juniors aged 11 to 16.
Children aged ten and under can ride free of charge. Spectators are welcome on the day.
