Youngsters inspired by the Olympic achievements of Team GB's cycling stars can get a taste of competitive bike riding at the Go-Ride Games this weekend.

The event - which take place at Western Park on Saturday (Aug 25) from 11am - will give cyclists aged 16-years or under the chance to take part in short-course cross country races and time trials, with advice and support from qualified coaches.

The entry-level races have been organised British Cycling and three local cycling clubs - Leicester Road Club, Leicester Forest Cycling Club and the Western Park Freeriders - with support from Leicester City Council.

Gary Coltman, manager of British Cycling's talent programme and coach at Leicestershire Road Club, said: "The Go-Ride Games are a great chance for young riders to follow in the footsteps of our star riders and have a go at cycle racing themselves.

"The races at Western Park will be a fun introduction to the sport and hopefully inspire a few of the young riders to think about joining a local cycling club. New talent is the life-blood of grassroots cycling, and it's from local clubs that the next generation of national champions will be found."

There will be qualifying heats and finals throughout the event, with a chance for riders to record a lap time between races. The Go-Ride games are suitable for novice racers and are free to enter. Bikes and helmets will available to borrow on the day.

The event is expected to end at around 2pm.

Cllr Piara Singh Clair, Asst City Mayor responsible for leisure and sport, said: "This has been an incredible summer for cycle sport, with so much to inspire young cyclists. The Go-Ride Games are a great way for young riders to experience the excitement and challenge of cycle sport for themselves."

British Cycling will also be offering free races for young and novice cyclists on Abbey Park as part of Sky Ride Leicester, which takes place on Sunday, August 26 from 10am until 4pm.