GOLD medallist Jason Kenny will be guest of honour at this year’s Sky Ride Bolton.

The Team GB Olympian will join in the fun as thousands of cyclists take over the town for the traffic-free 5km ride on June 7.

Bolton Sky Ride, one of 15 events nationally, sees all major roads through Bolton closed to all traffic except bikes and last year attracted 7,000 people of all ages.

Organisers are promising a festival atmosphere with a ‘Tricks and Tunes’ area and the chance to meet Farnworth-born Jason himself.

The 27-year-old said: “I am delighted to be attending Sky Ride Bolton once again and joining thousands of people in my hometown to be part of a fantastic celebration of cycling.

“The event is a great showcase of all the ways you can get involved in the sport, and the variety of recreational cycling programmes offered by British Cycling and Sky.

“It is a great day out for families, exploring the town on two wheels, traffic-free and an opportunity not to be missed. Register your free place today – and I will see you there.”

Cllr John Byrne, Bolton Council’s cabinet member for culture and youth, said he was delighted to welcome back the “fantastic” event.

He added: “Sky Ride is a great way of encouraging people to get involved in cycling, no matter what level of ability.

“As a keen cyclist myself I will be taking part again, as I do each year, and I would urge families to join us in the town centre on June 7 for a fun-filled day of traffic-free cycling and entertainment.

“Bolton’s very own Olympian, Jason Kenny, is a great ambassador for the sport and our town, and we’re looking forward to seeing him at the event. Even if you don’t fancy getting on two wheels and joining in the cycling, there’s plenty to see and enjoy.”

To register go to goskyride.com/BoltonSkyRide. This also entitles you to a free Halfords bike check worth £14.99.