Image: The new facility is one of Europe's largest

Thousands of cyclists are to participate in a mass cycle ride to help mark the official launch of Cyclopark - one of Europe's largest cycling parks near Gravesend, Kent - on 27 May.

The 43-hectare (106-acre) development incorporates a 2.9km (1.8-mile) cycling and running track; a championship-standard mountain bike track; and an international-level BMX track.

Sky Ride Kent is one of a number of events planned over a two-week period to celebrate the opening of Cyclopark, which has been delivered by civil engineering firm VolkerFitzpatrick.

Kent County Council (KCC) has led the development, which has cost nearly £10m and also features a new 600sq m (6,458sq ft) multi-use games area and an events complex.

Sport England; British Cycling; and the Homes and Communities Agency also contributed funding towards the scheme, in addition to the Colyer-Fergusson Charitable Trust and European Union.

KCC cabinet member for environment, highways and waste Bryan Sweetland said: "By careful development of the site we have been able to include a wide range of exciting and state of the art facilities.

"Opening before this Olympics we expect Cyclopark will draw in thousands of visitors, bringing tourists and their cash, to help regenerate this part of Kent."

Details: www.cyclopark.com

Image: Spencer Moret (www.moretphotography.com)