The British BMX championships will be held in the city over the August Bank Holiday at the Orton Park Track, in Orton Malborne, Peterborough, widely acknowledged as one of the top three tracks in the country.

The 350-metre track includes a combination of different jumps and bumps, as well as banked corners to test even the best riders in the competition.

Now work is being carried out on viewing areas around the track to make sure as many spectators will be able to watch the spectacular action as possible.

Up to 700 riders from all over the UK will take part in the event, which is being organised by Peterborough Phantoms BMX Club and sponsored by Peterborough City Council.

Phantoms chairman Peter Sergent said: "This is a major coup for Peterborough, and should bring thousands of people from all over the UK to the city.

"It will also help put the spotlight on BMX racing as a serious sport. We hope lots of local people will come along and support what promises to be a really exciting event."

The event will take place just days after millions of people across the world will have watched the sport's Olympic debut in Beijing, and Phantom's riders are currently training with the British squad in preparation for the 2012 games in London.

And Sky TV viewers will be able to watch the action when it is broadcast in a one-hour programme after the event.

Mayor of Peterborough councillor Marion Todd, said: "The August Bank Holiday weekend is always a great time for families to get out and enjoy local attractions and support local events.

"The beer festival already draws real ale lovers from across the world to Peterborough on that weekend, and we are hoping BMX riders, their families and fans of the sport will also flock to the city this year to attend the event and see the other delights we have to offer."

The championships will take place on Saturday, August 23, and Sunday, August 24.

Anyone interested in finding out more about the event, or BMX racing, can go along to the Phantoms BMX Club's Wednesday club nights at the Orton Malborne track, from 6pm.

The club caters for all ages, from five to the over-40s, and is open to boys, girls, men and women.

n For more information, call Peter Sergent on 01487 831133, or Chas Shrosbree, on 07825 275791, or visit www.peterborough phantoms.bmx.co.uk