A MAP which illustrates a two-wheeled tour of part of the region will be launched this weekend.

The biggest event of its kind, the York Cycle Rally is expected to attract more than 20,000 people tomorrow and Sunday. The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority is hoping to see at least some of them return for cycling holidays in North Yorkshire.

The Dales Cycle Way starts in Skipton and follows a 210km route around the National Park, taking in Hawes in Wensleydale and Reeth in Swaledale.

Andy Ryland, transport and visitor management officer, at the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, said: "We're delighted to be launching the new Yorkshire Dales Cycle Way map at the York Cycle Rally; we hope to encourage cyclists from all over the country to buy the map and then to discover for themselves the magnificent scenery, towns and villages of the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

"Not only is cycling a great way to see the countryside but, by using pedal-power, cyclists are helping the environment and providing a valuable contribution the local economy of the area by using shops, tea rooms, pubs and accommodation," said the authority's transport and visitor management officer, Andy Ryland.

The Dales Bike Bus will also be at the rally on Saturday to help promote the service which links Wakefield and Leeds with the Yorkshire countryside.

More information is available by calling 0870 10201088 or online at www.dalesbus.org