The Perth and Kinross Provost was joined by Alfie George (Discovery Junior CC), Amber King, Jenny Holl and Rhona Callander (all Stirling Bike Club) at Perth Concert Hall to officially launch the ScottishPower Youth Tour of Scotland 2015 yesterday.

The event which takes place this weekend, 04 -06 April, will see over 130 young cyclists take to the streets of Perth. Teams from throughout the UK will compete across four stages in and around the city of Perth, with roads being closed in the city centre for this unique annual event.

Alfie, a 14-year-old Dundee High School student said: "It is without doubt the biggest youth cycling event in Scotland and I just can't wait for it to start - even though it will be the hardest race of my life.

“Competing against so many top cyclists will be a huge challenge but it will be good to learn from how they race, and what they do to prepare."

The Blairgowrie and Glens councillor said “I’m thrilled so many of the UK’s top young cyclists will be competing in Perth and Kinross over the next few days and I wish them the very best of luck.”

Bob MacFarlane, ScottishPower National Youth Racing Series Events Officer for Scottish Cycling, said: “The Youth Tour of Scotland is one of our flagship events and I can’t wait to see the action unfold on the day.

“It is a great opportunity for the great talent we have in this country to showcase their skills and compete against the very best.

“With more than 163 affiliated clubs across the country and more than 650 events to choose from it has never been easier to get involved. Visit www.scottishcycling.org.uk to find out how to contact your local clubs and find out more about the range of racing and coaching opportunities.”

This weekend’s event is once again supported by ScottishPower’s investment in Scottish Cycling, the largest ever sponsor of youth cycling in Scotland.

For more information about the ScottishPower Youth Tour of Scotland click here