WHILE leather clad bikers are busy polishing up their chrome for the motorcycle event of the year in Rossendale, organisers are hoping a novel race will prove an added attraction.

Besides the hoards of gleaming two-wheeled machines which will fill every inch of Rawtenstall for the Rossendale Valley Motorbike Show -- lawnmower racing will also be taking place in Whitaker Park!

This year the show runs over two days September 23 and 24 with the main show day on the Sunday. Street collections will take place on both days to raise money for 19 local charities, groups and organisations who are providing helpers to marshal the events. The North West Lawn Mower Racing Association is holding grand prix races in the park on Saturday while on Sunday events include the Purple Helmets display team and a stunt rider at Newhallhey cricket ground, mini moto racing on Asda car park and a trick riding show on Bocholt Way.

Charities can reserve space for their own stalls free of charge by contacting 012706 227560.

And anyone willing to help out with marshalling the event can contact Sue Troughton on 01706 215356 after 5pm or attend a marshals meeting at The Glory, Burnley Road, Loveclough, at 7.30pm on September 4.