Closed circuit town centre racing is returning to Silloth next month.

With the Cumberland Cobbler Solway Coast Cycling Festival just a few weeks away, cycling devotees are encouraging people to take part in the variety of free activities scheduled.

Following the success of previous years, the town centre racing returns to the scenic coastal town of Silloth on June 8 from 10am and 5pm.

There's a new route this time around that has a more significant portion on tarmac.

However, it retains its tight and technically challenging course, featuring a significant cobblestone stretch and myriad corners to test cyclists' skills.

These cycling events are organised by the Carlisle Cycling Association with the help of British Cycling.

Those interested in signing up have until May 24 to do so.

Applications can be submitted online at https://www.britishcycling.org.uk/events/details/297382/The-Cumberland-Cobbler-2024

Fiona Graham from the Carlisle Cycling Association said: "We will be running races on Silloth's iconic cobbled streets throughout the day to challenge the riders and entertain the public.

"We also want to showcase the beautiful Solway Coast and show visiting cyclists that there is more to Cumbria than the central Lake District."

Cumberland Council organises the majority of the festival's activities, which will be held on Silloth Green.

The festival will welcome special guest GB cyclist Philip Hines and offer various events such as Crank It cycling activities, including a jump track, a timed trail course, skills challenge coaching and balance bike races, a BMX showcase, funfairs, live music, and a producers’ market.

Jack Humphreys from Crank It said: "We’re really excited to be a part of the cycling festival this year.

"It’s going to be a great day filled with fun adventures for the whole family!

"Crank It will be bringing our usual include cycling shenanigans designed for everyone be that a seasoned rider or someone new to pedalling!

"Smiles and laughs included."

Jessica Shay from Everybody’s Cycling added: "We are delighted to be supporting the festival as our goal as a charity is to enable everyone to experience cycling and enjoy all the benefits that cycling can bring.

"Our free cycle try-out features fun and unique cycles including tandems, tricycles, modern miniature penny farthings, recumbent KMX karts, eccentric-wheeled bikes, children’s bikes and many more.

"Our try-out is fully inclusive and provides the ideal opportunity for people with additional needs or who are new to cycling, to discover the wide range of cycles available."

The UK Government partially funds the event through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, with the remainder provided by SIIF and Cumberland Council.

Cumberland Council Cllr Anne Quilter, portfolio holder for vibrant and healthy places said: "Our free family event showcases the amazing cycling routes around Silloth including the Hadrian’s Wall route.

"There will be a town centre cycling race along with a producers' market.

"Sign up soon to take part in the cycle race."

This year marks the fourth time that the Solway Coast Cycling Festival has been held in Silloth, with previous festivals taking place in 2021, 2022 and 2023.

For updates, visit www.cumberland.gov.uk or follow Cumberland Council on social media platforms.