Penny-farthings racing again in Smithfield after 100 years

Penny-farthing racing is returning to London after more than a century.

The IG Markets London Nocturne will see 35 riders from around the world competing on the streets of Smithfield on June 11. Racers will compete in two events, a sprint and an endurance ride. Event organiser James Pope said: "The last time penny-farthings were raced regularly in London was in the 1880s but it had stopped entirely by the turn of the century as bike technology developed.

"We actually found quite a few people who commute on penny-farthings in London and we've already reached capacity of 35 riders." He added: "We have people coming from Australia, America, Spain, France, Italy and Belgium. There are going to be some raised eyebrows at the airport."

About 10,000 spectators are expected for the event, which will also see conventional cycle racing at night on the Smithfield course. The world's top teams, including Britain's Sky, will take part.