THOUSANDS of cyclists are to take to the streets of Southampton as Sky Ride returns to the city for a third year.

The city’s streets will be cleared of traffic on Sunday July 1 for the family-oriented mass cycling event.

Last year around 10,000 cyclists took part in the free event, which passes some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and sites.

Organised by Southampton City Council in partnership with Sky and British Cycling it aims to encourage more people to get back in the saddle and rediscover the delights of cycling with friends and family.

The council’s leisure boss Councillor Warwick Payne said: “I’m looking forward to seeing the streets completely transformed for one fantastic day. As a keen cyclist I took part in the very first Sky Ride in Southampton and I'll be hoping to bring my bike to the starting line again this year.”

The council is appealing for volunteers to help staff the route and businesses who want to get involved. Volunteers can call Lee Page on 023 8031 9556 or email Lee.Page@solent.ac.uk.