One of the best new cycling events in over 40 years, according to the British Cycling president, is to run for a second time with hopes of attracting 20,000 people.

The Malton Festival of Cycling took place two Sundays prior to the Tour de France Grand Depart last year and a date for the 2015 event has been set for Sunday, June 21 – seven weeks after the Tour de Yorkshire visits the county.

The inaugural event, set in the centre of the North Yorkshire town, attracted over 300 competitors to take part in the day’s racing.

Last year there were seven circuit races: four youth races, a regional B cat 3 and cat 4 race, a national B E/1/2/3 race and a women’s 2/3/4 race.

As well as the racing there was 6,000 people attending the festival and this year organisers want more businesses to get involved.

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Mr Clark said: “British Cycling president Bob Howden said it was one of the best start-up events he had seen in the 40-plus years he has been involved in cycling.

“There is a real hunger around for cycling in the UK at the moment, particularly with the Tour de Yorkshire now coming to the area and this year we hope to attract three times as many visitors.”

The organisers also want people to suggest a type of race as it is likely that a spare race slot will become available. Early possibilities include a timed lap for local businesses or a fancy dress ride.

Those who want to get involved with the festival or provide sponsorship should email ash@northernride.com.