THE Winchester Criterium will be a much bigger event in 2016, the organisers have announced.  It include British Cycling's South Regional Circuit Race Championships when it is held on Sunday June 5.

The Criterium and CycleFest events, which aim to encourage more people to participate in cycling, were reintroduced in 2013 as part of the London 2012 Olympic legacy.

Colin Docker, South Region vice chairman, said: “In the past three years, the Winchester Criterium and CycleFest has grown to become one of the biggest and best events in the region.

“We’re delighted that Winchester will host the most important day of racing in the regional calendar and I look forward to some really competitive racing on the renowned technical circuit right in the heart of the city.”

Local retailer Hargroves Cycles will headline sponsor the event, and partners the Winchester City Council to help promote the event as well as having a strong presence on the day.

Hargroves' marketing manager Craig Surgey said: "This city and circuit is what Criterium racing is all about. With one of our flagship stores in Winchester, and our reach across the region, the event is an ideal one for us to support.

Amanda Ford, Head of Sport and Physical Activity at Winchester City Council, saidd: "I'm really excited that we are providing a home to the regional championships this year, and will be partnering again with Hargroves and a terrific group of local organisations, including cycling club VC Venta, who will be well represented on the circuit and in the background again this year.

"The whole Broadway area will be a hive of cycling activity on the day. We will open the event circuit for a Family Ride before the racing begins, and there are great viewpoints for the racing itself so there will be something for everyone.”