CYCLISTS are gearing up for the Mayor of London's Sky Ride in Ealing this month, to be held on a car-free route.

On Sunday, July 18, families will be able to get on their bikes for the free 12km cycling event, which will start from Lammas Park, pass along Uxbridge Road and on to Sutherland Road.

Landmarks on the route include Pitzhanger Manor House, Ealing Town Hall, Ealing Common and Hanwell Clock Tower, and there will be a festival and rest area at Lammas Park.

Thousands of people are expected to take part, with guided rides bringing cyclists from Hounslow, Hillingdon, Hammersmith, Harrow, Brent and Richmond. The British track and road rider, Joanna Rowsell, will also be getting on her bike.

The Mayor of London, Boris Johnson, said: "This is London's year of cycling and I'm delighted we're going to be bringing this great event to the queen of the suburbs.

"Sky Ride is a fantastic opportunity for everyone - no matter what age or cycling ability - to experience the joy of cycling on a car-free route and celebrate the cleanest, greenest, easiest way of getting about town. A real cycling revolution is taking place in the capital and I want to say to Ealing residents that there has never been a better time to give pedal power a punt."

Councillor Bassam Mahfouz, Ealing Council cabinet member for transport and environment, said: "The Sky Ride is an excellent opportunity for the whole family to enjoy the best Ealing has to offer.

"Cycling is fun and healthy and it's a great opportunity for beginners to see how easy and enjoyable it is."

For more information and to register, visit www.goskyride.com.