WIRRAL Oympic champion Chris Boardman MBE is urging more readers to take part in this year's Bikeathon.

Chris will be among those taking part and has been asked by the Globe to give some tips on how to prepare for the event.

He wrote: "The Olympics are looming, the weather is at least threatening to warm up and cycling is now a bonafide fashion activity, just some of the compelling reasons to get your bike out of the garage and press it into service.

“Whether you are going to ride to work, for leisure or more seriously, here are a few tips to help you get the most from your riding experience.

“The Wirral Way is a beautiful place to ride a bike but in common with many a country lane in our area, it’s lined with hawthorn hedges that when cut, mine the road with the horticultural equivalent of those things police use to puncture the tyres of speeding criminals.

“Whatever your reason to start (or get back into) cycling, the best way to ensure you do it regularly is to have a goal, one preferably shared with friends.

“Our very own Wirral Bikeathon is a perfect target to aim for. With two distances to choose from (14 or 28 miles) and starting in Arrowe Park.

“It’s a perfect event for young and old, slow or fast, so have a look at the website and get signed www.wirralbikeathon.com “For those of you who do make the move to two wheels, in the coming weeks I’ll be giving some more practical tips on bike buying, training and clothing.

“In the meantime, if you see me on the roads of Wirral, don’t forget to say hello!”

Chris, who will be among those taking part in the Olympic torch relay, took Britain's opening Gold medal at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics astride the famous Lotus bike.

More than 150 people have so far signed up for the Globe-backed event, now in its 14th year, which takes place on Sunday, June 17.

All proceeds will go to Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research.

To take part, visit the Bikeathon website in related links section.