THOUSANDS of cyclists are expected to descend on Southampton tomorrow as the hugely popular Sky Ride returns to the city for its fourth year.

The streets will be cleared of all traffic for the mass cycling extravaganza.

From the city centre Bargate monument, to the Cenotaph and Southampton’s historic walls, all can be viewed from the saddle as bikes take control of the city roads for one day only.

Police will be on duty at the event offering safety advice and high visibility rucksack covers to ensure all those taking part return home safely.

Sergeant Darren Ord, who leads the force’s Steer Clear cycle safety campaign, said: “As we’ve seen over the past few weeks of lovely sunny weather, traffic on the roads has increased and with it the risk to cyclists.

“A very simple message which stands repeating is always wear a cycle helmet. I know it can be really tempting not to whilst it is so hot, but it’s the most important piece of kit you can wear and it can save your life.”

The family-orientated mass event has no official start or finish line, cyclists are just encouraged to join in wherever they wish and take in the views of Southampton.

The event will follow the same, traffic-free 7.8km route through the city centre, central parks and docks as last year when more than 12,000 cyclists, some donning fancy dress, took part.

It is organised by the city council in partnership with Sky and British Cycling, and aims to encourage more people to cycle.

There will also be events held at various points around the route.

There will be a number of stands and cycling activities on offer at Guildhall Square, cycle skills training and face-painting at Watts Park, music on the bandstand at Palmerston Park and archery and bike maintenance at Houndwell Park.

The city centre will be closed off to traffic throughout the duration of the event, which is expected to last from 10.30am-4pm.