ASPIRING young mountain bikers in West Fife have received a boost after Canvas Holidays pledged their backing to the Kingdom Crits series.

The series is four events for two-wheeled enthusiasts aged from six to 18 which aims to give them their first taste of mountain bike racing in a fun, safe environment.

The award-winning Dunfermline-based package holiday company, which won big at December's British Travel Industry Awards, will provide sponsorship and volunteers for the popular grassroots event, which begins on Sunday in Glenrothes, for the second successive year.

Canvas have doubled their contribution in 2016, donating more than £2,200 in funding to cover the cost of certificates, medals and other materials, while one lucky race participant and their family will win a £500 voucher towards a camping holiday in one of their European destinations.

Margaret Robertson, Canvas Holidays' marketing director, said: "We are so pleased to be involved with the Kingdom Crits for a second year. Cycling is a popular activity on our holidays and lots of our customers, young and old, get involved.

"The Crits are a great way to get kids in Fife active and have some fun at the same time. It also brings the whole family out into the fresh air, with everyone helping out to make the event a success."

The series will take place in four venues across the Kingdom, with each event hosted by separate clubs.

After the opening round in Glenrothes – hosted by the Mukyriderz club – Carnegie Cyclones will host the second stage at Fife College, Halbeath, on May 15 before rounds three and four take place in Kirkcaldy and at Lochore Meadows in, conjunction with Middleden MTB Club and Meedies Bike Club, on June 5 and 12 respectively.

For more information, visit www.facebook.com/KingdomCrits.