Sunday 27 June is the date set for the event which will include the Elite Men and Elite Women's races, with over 300 cyclists taking part.

"This is fantastic news as it puts us on the fast track on the cycling map of Britain," said Councillor John David, Leader of Pendle Council.

"Olympic medallists Bradley Wiggins and Pendle's own Steven Burke will be battling it out with up to 200 riders including Tour de France multiple stage winner Mark Cavendish," he explained.

"Mark is currently on the final shortlist for the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Award.

"And in the Women's event, Olympic Gold and Silver medallists Nicole Cooke and Emma Pooley will be fighting for the right to wear the coveted national champion's jersey for a year."

"This is a major opportunity to boost tourism and to show people that Pendle is a fantastic part of Britain.

"There's likely to be live TV coverage of the races which will start and finish at Barley picnic site," he explained.

Ward Councillor for Pendleside, James Starkie, is co-ordinating the event on behalf of the villages and said this week:

"It's a bit like bringing the FA Cup Final to Pendleside!

"Just like the TT on the Isle of Man, the 7 1/2 mile circular route from Barley to Blacko, to Roughlee and back to Barley, will be closed for much of the day.

"So we are making sure residents are inconvenienced as little as possible and know exactly what's happening," he explained.

"There'll be the potential for residents to help provide refreshments, act as marshals and run stalls to support their villages," he added.

A report on the high profile event will be discussed by councillors at the Barrowford and Western Parishes Area Committee this Thursday, 3 December, at 7pm at Barrowford Civic Hall.

Local residents are welcome to attend the meeting and to share their views at public question time.

Brian Cookson, Pendle Council's Executive Director for Regeneration and President of British Cycling, said:

"We're asking councillors to support the event and to make a contribution out of their Area Committee budget towards the costs.

"The bulk of these costs will be covered by external funding, private sector sponsorship and the Council's main Events budget.

"We also need the support of the local community to ensure the event is a success for everyone."

"This event will attract Britain's best cyclists and will be a vital test for them in the run up to the Tour de France which follows straight after this National Championship.

  "This top event adds to our amazing calendar of events in Pendle, and will be a brilliant showcase for our area.

"Next year we'll also be hosting our annual Colne Grand Prix, the Pendle Pedal and our special easy-paced family freedom rides, so that everyone can experience the benefits of cycling in the beautiful Pendle countryside," he added.