Otley has been hailed in the House of Commons as a “national centre for cycling”.

MP Greg Mulholland (Lib Dem, Leeds North West) tabled a Parliamentary motion, praising the town's promotion of the sport, on Tuesday.

The MP cited the successful annual town centre Cycle Races, newer events like the Otley Cycling Festival and Otley Sportive, and the silver medal Olympic achievement of local cyclist Lizzie Armitstead.

He said: “I am delighted that Otley has demonstrated such interest, talent and enthusiasm in cycling such that it has established itself as a national centre for the sport.

“Annual events such as the town centre races and cycling festival have further boosted Otley’s profile as a centre for cycling, as have the exploits of Lizzie Armitstead at the amazing London 2012 Olympics.

“Other events, like Otley Sportive, offer an excellent opportunity for riders of all levels to get on their bikes and test themselves, or simply try cycling for the first time.

“The many cycling activities taking place in Otley are a fantastic way of enriching the community while also offering a platform from which those inspired by London 2012 can get involved with sports at a local level.

“This is of vital importance at this time to ensure the legacy of the Olympics is delivered.”

Chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Cycling Group, Julian Huppert MP, also praised the town. He said: “Across the country, thousands are adopting cycling as a healthy, cheap and efficient form of transport, and an excellent pastime. I am delighted to see Otley leading the way.”