Saddle up for a spectacle

IT IS a time when the Capital is packed with drinkers and diners letting their hair down after a long week, but tonight they'll have to step aside as some of the world's top cyclists take to the streets.

Huge crowds are expected to gather to see the stars of the Edinburgh Nocturne 2010 navigate the narrow wynds and steep steps of the Old Town.

At the 11th hour there was still one entry slot remaining for any local enthusiast that fancied their chances against the likes of Commonwealth gold medallist Malcolm Elliot and world track champion Cameron Meyer, who dominated last year's event.

Event organiser James Pope said: "There's a real pedigree of talent coming from abroad to face our British teams and it'll be a great event to be part of.

"There's the mix of entertainment and a great sporting event and it couldn't be in a better setting."

Amidst the stars of the event will be West Lothian cyclist Ross Creber, who beat several top names at last weekend's British road race championships in Lancashire, coming 14th place and third in the under-23s.

The fact that he beat UCI ProTour stars David Millar and Mark Cavendish, who failed to finish the gruelling 180-kilometre trek, will add to his confidence tonight.

However, he will have to look out for Russell Downing of Team Sky and Jonny Bellis from the Saxo Bank Team. Bellis, who is returning to the sport following a near-fatal scooter accident last year, is said to be on top form and glad to be back in the saddle.

Mr Pope added: "The race is right in the middle of a large city and people can watch the race as they're sitting in bars and restaurants around the Grassmarket.

"We've also got the folding bike race, which is very popular. We make the riders run 30 metres and unfold their bikes. The first few yards are pretty hectic.

"We've probably got the best event in the UK this year so far, and with some of the names we have on the bill this weekend it should be a great event."