The event, second only in popularity to the Tour of Britain Cycle Race, is expected to attract 100 competitors and many spectators.

The race starts at 9-30 a.m. in Nelson town centre, with the route going along Manchester Road, down Montford Road onto the Fence bypass, through Barrowford on to the A59 towards Clitheroe. The route then goes along the A671 from Whalley through Read and along the bypass.

Cyclists complete three laps of this circuit before finishing in Nelson centre around 1-30 p.m.

Sgt Dave Burns, from Pennine Policing Division, said: "This is a fantastic local event and if last year is anything to go by it will be extremely popular with cyclists and spectators.

"Clearly it will result in some disruption for motorists, which is why we are keen to give drivers advanced notice and urge them to be prepared for delays and to follow the diversions that will be in place."

Where cyclists are riding on roads which haven't been closed, motorists are advised to pull over and let them through.