Stonehenge
Summer is just around the corner and with it comes British Cycling’s Sky Ride Local programme in Wiltshire.
The popular programme of rides, guided by trained British Cycling ride leaders, is set to kick off again on Sunday, June 8 in Trowbridge, with rides happening later in the month in Devizes, Chippenham and Salisbury.
Organised by British Cycling and Sky, in partnership with Wiltshire Council, Sky Ride Local gives local people the chance to join organised, guided rides of varying distances and difficulties ranging from easy-going spins around picturesque parts of the county, through to ‘steady’ rides for those seeking a little more adventure.
Jonathon Seed, Cabinet member with responsibility for leisure at Wiltshire Council, said: “The Sky Ride local programme provides an excellent opportunity for people who have always thought about starting cycling to get on their bike and get involved. This is a nationally recognised programme that has been popular across the country and was a massive success when we launched it here in Wiltshire last year”.
British Cycling has been working closely with Wiltshire Council to break down some of the barriers that prevent people from cycling more often, such as lack of routes, safety and having someone to ride with. All rides are organised and guided by British Cycling trained Ride Leaders, who are on hand to offer encouragement and support throughout.
One of Wiltshire Council’s top priorities is ensuring people stay fit and active, and as part of their Legacy for Wiltshire programme more than 500 people took to their bikes last weekend (May 3 and 4), to enjoy the atmosphere and spectacle of Cycle Wiltshire.
Maggie Rae, Corporate director, said: “This was a wonderful event and there were so many smiling faces both at the Grand Prix in Wilton and at the Sportive on Saturday. It’s really important we continue to promote the benefits of healthy and active lifestyles here in Wiltshire. We are keen to give people access to a range of activities which will benefit their health, so we’re pleased to be able to support this programme continuing to Wiltshire.”
Cycle Wiltshire, supported by Landmarc, provided the opportunity for people to take to the road on their bikes, as well as experience the excitement and thrill of top-class cycling in their local community.
Jo-Anne Downing, British Cycling’s Recreation Manager for the South, said: ‘Cycling’s never been more popular, and whatever your age or fitness level, it’s easy to get involved. We’re delighted to be working with Wiltshire Council to make it even easier for local people to get out on their bikes and have some fun this summer.’
The next Sky Rides coming up in Wiltshire are:
Date: Sunday 08 June
Time: 10am
Start location: Trowbridge
Date: Sunday 15 June
Time: 10am
Start location: Devizes
Date: Sunday 22 June
Time: 2pm
Start location: Chippenham
Sky Ride Local is just one of many ways British Cycling is encouraging people to get out on their bikes this summer. Register to take part or find out more at www.goskyride.com/wiltshire
