20/08/2010

Issued by: Cycling City York

The countdown to Cycling City York's second annual Festival of Cycling has begun, and it promises to be even bigger and better than last year's event.

It will take place in Rowntree Park on Saturday and Sunday 11 and 12 September and is totally free of charge, making it a fun and affordable day out for all the family. The Festival will offer a diverse range of cycling-related attractions and activities, with something to interest people of all ages and levels of cycling ability.

If you've not cycled for some time and fancy a gentle ride to ease yourself back into it, why not join in one of several guided cycle rides setting off from the park throughout both days? There will also be plenty of opportunity to watch awe-inspiring, dare-devil performances by a top bicycle stunt display team, and have a go on a wide variety of cycles in the ‘try-out' areas, where you will find everything from the more conventional cycles to the downright bizarre! From tandems and tricycles to the eccentric-looking bouncy bikes, there will be a cycle to suit everyone. Although there will be plenty of opportunity for everyone to try the different cycles, a series of themed try-out sessions - aimed specifically at children under six years; teenagers; families; girls only and people with special needs - will also be taking place.

There will also be a pedal-powered Scalextric racing game to have a go on; a ‘BMX Jam' for local riders to compete in; and ‘Bike Doctor' sessions that you can take your own bike along to for help and advice on basic care, repairs and maintenance. A number of local retailers, and cycling groups and organisations, will be have stands in the exhibitor village, so there will be plenty of opportunity to obtain information and advice on a whole host of cycling-related topics, not to  mention a chance to indulge in a spot of shopping!

Graham Titchener, programme manager for Cycling City York, said: "Last year's inaugural Festival of Cycling attracted almost 10,000 visitors of all ages and levels of cycling ability, which was just fantastic. In response to the many calls from members of the public who said they wanted to see this type of event again, we want to build on this success by making sure that this year's Festival is even bigger and better, and has plenty to appeal to people of all ages. It promises to be a really fantastic couple of days out for all the family, so come along and be a part of Cycling City York!

"It doesn't matter whether you cycle regularly, you're completely new to cycling or just want to see what it's all about, you're sure to find plenty to inspire you, not to mention lots of useful information and advice."

For more information about the Festival of Cycling and other Cycling City York events and activities, visit the new Cycling City York website at: http://www.cyclingcityyork.org.uk/

Cycling City York is working with York-based community interest company Get Cycling to stage the Festival of Cycling. The event will open to the public at 10.30am both days.

 (ENDS)