Norwich triathletes are set to undertake a trio of city centre challenges as part of this year's Lord Mayor's celebrations.

For the first time this year, people in Norwich have inadvertently been given the opportunity to do a three-day stage triathlon with the Gas Hill Gasp cycle race, which was introduced last year, and a river swim joining the long-established Lord Mayor's 5km running race.

Roger Slee, a member of city based triathlon club Tri-Anglia, first came up with the idea of taking part in the so-called Lord Mayor's Triathlon last September. He will be taking part in all three events with clubmate Mark Philo.

'I just had to string them together,' said Mr Slee, 43, who lives in the Golden Triangle. 'I'm looking forward to doing pretty well in the hill climb, the swim is going to be good fun and I'm looking forward to doing a respectable time in the 5k run and avoiding the cut off.'

The Gas Hill Gasp will see brave cyclists try and become king of the hill as they sprint up to the top of Norwich's steepest hill.

The competition will begin from 7pm on Friday, July 6, with heats of four riders being run for elite riders, club riders and under-16s.

The traditional Lord Mayor's 5km City Centre Classic road race will return on the Saturday, just before the Lord Mayor's Procession with a 4.45pm start time. Runners need to complete the distance in under 20 minutes.

The Norwich Six Bridge river swim will be held for the first time between 9am and midday on Sunday, July 8.

It will be a one mile swim under six bridges along the River Wensum, from New Mills Yard to Cow Tower.

Sixty-five people have entered so far and entries are still currently open.

Mr Philo, 44, from Trowse, said: 'I'm really looking forward to racing hard in the middle of the city. You don't often get the chance to race in the city centre so it's going to be a real privilege.'

Lord Mayor of Norwich Ralph Gayton said: 'It's great to have such a sporting focus for the celebrations in the Olympic year - with the Gas Hill Gasp, 5km road race and six bridge river swim. We have got a few energetic days to look forward to.'

To enter the river swim, go to www.activeoutdoorsport.co.uk.