Hundreds of cyclists, swimmers and runners are set to take part in the Horwich Festival of Racing this weekend (June 17 and 18).
The festival, now in its 16th year, has a packed programme of running and cycling events taking place over the weekend.
And a number of roads will be closed in Horwich to facilitate the event safely.
The following roads will be closed on Saturday from 2pm to 11pm, and on Sunday from 8am to 6pm: Lee Lane from its junction with Winter Hey Lane to the Crown Roundabout; Winter Hey Lane; Chorley New Road between Scholes Bank and Winter Hey Lane.
On Sunday, at approximately 10.45am and 12.20pm, Church Street will also close briefly for 20 minutes from Horwich Leisure Centre down to the Longworth Road junction to allow runners to pass safely.
Signposted diversions will be in place and marshals will be present to assist residents and businesses to use the alternative routes around the town centre.
Businesses on the Pearl Brook industrial estate can access the site from Chorley New Road, and motorists are advised that car parks on St John’s Street will also be closed for the weekend.
President of the Festival, Barbara Ronson, said: “I am thrilled that we are again able to run events on the Saturday afternoon and evening this year. It’s a great opportunity for youngsters to take part and it will draw many more people into the town but we do appreciate that as the event grows that there will be an impact on journeys around Horwich town centre.
“We have worked hard with Bolton Council and with our own traffic management contractors to provide clear alternative routes. We will be delivering letters to all businesses and residents around the course outlining what these are and giving them plenty of notice to arrange alternative delivery days and travel routes.
“This is a fantastic local event and there will be plenty to see and do over the weekend. It’s not too late to enter so check out the website at www.horwichfestivalofracing.co.uk.”
Cabinet Member for Culture, Councillor John Byrne, added: “We want to make sure the weekend is a success for Horwich and the road closures are essential to facilitate the event safely.
“The Horwich Festival of Racing covers a wide area and we are working closely with the organiser and other partners in an effort to minimise disruption.
“We would encourage people to plan their travel in advance, use alternative routes and we would like to thank residents, businesses and motorists in advance for their patience.”
For more information, visit www.horwichfesitvalofracing.co.uk.
For full details of all road closures, visit www.bolton.gov.uk/trafficorders.