WORLD class mountain bikers will bid for glory when part of Manchester's 2002 Commonwealth Games is staged at Rivington.

North West Water's Rivington estate, which has 10 miles of tracks, has been chosen for the mountain biking event because of its demanding terrain and easy access for the public.

Earlier this Year NWW's parent company United Utilities announced its partnership in the games when it became the first major sponsor of the new millennium.

Phil Luff, NWW's team leader, said: "We already offer a full range of sporting activities at Rivington but now, thanks to our links with the games organisers, we can invite visitors to come and see some first class racing."

Francis Dome, chief executive of Manchester 2002, added: "Mountain biking promises to be an exhilarating event in the Commonwealth Games cycling programme in 2002.

"The Rivington route offers an exciting course for the mountain bikers taking part, satisfying the criteria which make this both a demanding course for the riders and a course which is easily accessible for spectators who want to watch this thrilling sport."

Phil Luff is pictured with local schoolchildren Rob Cowley, 15, and Amy Hunt, 13, plus Kit, the 2002 games mascot.