WHEEL-TO-WHEEL cycle racing action is returning to Worthing for a third year.

The StreetVelodrome competition will once again be staged at Beach House Grounds on July 1 and 2.

The past two years were both sun-drenched weekends which saw the event screened on national television.

For the event, Beach House Grounds is transformed into a professional racing circuit in a matter of hours.

Councillor Bryan Turner, executive member for regeneration at Worthing Borough Council, said: “This is a fantastic family event.

“It doesn’t matter how old you are or how much experience you’ve got.

“StreetVelodrome is an open competition designed to bring out the best in every rider.

“I’m proud that Worthing Borough Council is bringing it back to the town for a third year, creating another great weekend for tourists and local residents alike.

“It offers a perfect opportunity to clip on a helmet and test yourself against amateur and pro riders.”

The format for this year mirrors the successful set-up from last year.

The South Coast Rollers, Worthing’s home team, will be taking to the track again searching for the best new talent to accompany them to the London finals.

All equipment and coaching will be provided.

In addition to council investment, main sponsors are Chandlers of Worthing, Lancing College prep school at Worthing, Southern Railway and Worthing Homes.

Other sporting groups will be involved over the weekend.

Worthing FC, Worthing RFC, Worthing Thunder, VC Jubilee and Southdown Leisure will be offering visitors the chance to learn new skills.

The Street Velodrome is a seven-part series where the track travels around the UK allowing people to take part in various towns.

Last year’s event was three days and included a dedicated schools’ day on Friday, free public have-a-go sessions on Saturday, and competitive races on Sunday with two-lap time trials and three-lap races.

Series director Carl Thompson said Worthing is a great place for a race.

He said: “The way the event was received last year by the council and how well it was organised, it was the right place for us.

“For us, we are all about showing new people how to get into the sport and the support that comes with it.”

Year 6 children from Lancing College Preparatory School came down for the day last year as part of the schools’ activities.

Staff said the children had a great time.