Cyclists from Poland, Italy, France and Germany will be pedalling through York this week as part of an international twinning event.

More than 100 people are expected to participate in four days of activities, including 140 miles of cycling through North Yorkshire's beautiful countryside.

The BT International Twin-ning Federation (BTITF) event has been organised by Richard Messer for employees of postal and telecommunications businesses across Europe.

Project manager Richard, who has been organising the event for two years with a small team, said: "I'm a keen cyclist and I'm looking forward to seeing everyone coming together."

Each year one of the European twinning cities taking part in the programme is chosen to hold a week of cycling, walking and social visits, which is called Oscar. The age of participants ranged from eight to 76. The country that completes the most miles through cycling and walking is awarded the Oscar trophy.

Richard said: "Unfortunately the UK has never won this trophy in the 11 years it has been competed for, but we are hoping to change this in 2003!"

Updated: 10:38 Tuesday, July 29, 2003