The race will held over an 800m. circuit around the town centre, starting and finishing outside the library in Market Street. It is part of the National Elite Series organised by British Cycling, the UK's governing body for road racing.

Previous winners and participants have included world and Olympic champions such as Bradley Wiggins, Chris Newton and Paul Manning.

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The Grand Prix is organised by Pennine Events Limited, which has offices in Barnoldswick and specialises in organising sports, leisure and health events across the country.

Mark Sandamas, director of Pennine Events, said: "We are expecting a good crowd again – from across the North West, Yorkshire and beyond. The riders are the best in the country so it's quite special to have them again in Colne.

"More people who might not necessarily know much about cycle racing are getting hooked on the spectacle. The riders are true athletes and spectators get caught up in the excitement and the thrills and spills of the race."

The Grand Prix is part of Pendle Bike Fest 2008 and details, including locations and dates, are available at www.pendlebikefest.com or from 01695 682020.