The longest BMX track outside the Olympic Park is now open in Merton

Merton is to see the benefit of the London 2012 legacy in the form of the longest BMX track in London outside the Olympic park.

Although the track will officially open in the autumn, the Brixton BMX Racing Club will be using the track for its south regional event on Sunday.

Located in Mitcham, the track is 340 metres long and offers BMXers the chance to ride all year round as it is also the only floodlit track in south London.

Pupils from schools in the area as well as residents and sports organisation are all set to take advantage of the new facility.

Merton Council has secured funding, allowing them to offer Mitcham schools a discount for hiring the track and equipment.  The council will also be organising turn up and ride sessions on Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

The track is already being used by members of the public and there is an embryonic Merton BMX Club developing with some of the members joining in this weekend.

Merton Active Plus courses will be available this summer for children aged eight to 16, giving them the chance to learn basic BMX skills.

Information about the track and charges can be found at www.merton.gov.uk/bmx-track