Lancaster City Council secured £160,000 to develop the 1,300 metre cycling track, which was in a poor state of repair, to transform it into something fit for potential Olympic champions.

And to prove that claim Olympic gold medallists Jason Queally and Bradley Wiggins will be joining in the celebrations by officially cutting the ceremonial ribbon.

One of only a small number of dedicated outside circuits in the country, improvements to the circuit have included widening and resurfacing works, improved signage and a cycle skills area.

As well as the chance to meet two Olympic champions, the opening celebrations will include a number of cycling related activities for all ages to enjoy. Anyone wishing to join in the fun is encouraged to come on their bikes.

Coun Jane Fletcher, Lancaster City Council's cabinet member with responsibility for leisure and sport, said: "Cycling is fast becoming one of the most popular forms of exercise around.

"It is also a healthy activity, relatively cheap and caters for all abilities.

"Our hope with the newly improved circuit is that it will encourage people of all abilities to become better cyclists and take advantage of the benefits it brings."

Funding for the scheme has come in the form of £150,000 from British Cycling's allocation of funding from Sport England's Community Club Development Programme and £10,000 from the council's Cycling Demonstration Town project.

Stewart Kellett, Regional Director for Sport England in the North West, commented: "The improvements to the track are fantastic and it's great that Jason and Bradley will be on hand to mark its official re-opening.

The changes will ensure that everyone from casual cyclists to potential Olympians will be catered for and I look forward to the venue playing a major role in the continued development of cycling across Lancashire and the North West."

The city council is working closely with the Salt Ayre Cycling Association and British Cycling to develop a comprehensive club structure at the sports centre and possibly develop athletes for the London Olympics in 2012.

The circuit will also be used to develop a 'wheels for all' programme, using adapted bikes to encourage more people with disabilities to get involved with cycling.

Tony Sweeney from the Salt Ayre Cycling Association said: "The Association are delighted with the circuit improvements that will allow their continued running of racing for all categories and benefit the GoRide juniors of Cog Set.

"This is the culmination of 6 years work by SACA and the Association wish to thank Lancaster City Council, British Cycling and Sport England for their support.

"Salt Ayre Cycling Association look forward to further planned improvements to the facility, in the near future, to assist their training and coaching programmes."

For more information on the cycling circuit and how to get involved telephone Salt Ayre Sports Centre on 01524 847540.