MORE THAN 4,000 cycling fans hit the streets of Clitheroe to watch the UK's top riders put through their paces.

The Ultraframe Clitheroe Cycling Grand Prix saw racers hurtle at up to 35mph on the market town's cobbled streets.

And it is hoped its success will help it to follow in the slipstream of Colne's popular race and become an annual event.

The town came to a standstill last night, with riders negotiating a 900 metre-long circuit in Moor Lane, Castle Street, Wellgate and Lowergate.

And there was a 29-lap support race before the main event -- the 60-lap Elite race with 45 racers, part of the national championships.

Pubs and shops recorded roaring trade and Graham Jagger, Ribble Valley Council streetscene manager, said: "We estimate there were about 4,000 visitors. The pubs were full and kids were hanging over the barriers to get a better look.

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And Ivor Armstrong, of Cycling Development North West, added: "Clitheroe used to have a regular road race 20 years ago, it's great that it's back.The riders loved the circuit."

Cycling fan Michelle Craig, of Ribbledale View, Chatburn, waved the riders off at the start. The 36-year-old Ultraframe receptionist won the job in the sponsor's employee competition.

She said: "It was a dream come true for me to start the race."

Yesterday also saw the launch of the council's Cycling Strategy to establish the borough as a centre for excellence.