20/07/2009

A range of bicycles will be provided on three ‘try-out' tracks, including bikes for children of all ages and those more suitable for older residents. There will also be a range of bicycles for people with special needs, not to mention some really unusual bikes, such as the seven-seater ‘CircleCycle'.

The festival will take place at Rowntree Park on the weekend of August 15 and 16, and will give York residents a chance to enjoy cycling-related activities in a safe and friendly environment.

Paul Ramskill, participation group manager for Cycling City York, explained: "We are keen to ensure that the Festival of Cycling is a totally inclusive event that all local residents can be a part of. We want to encourage people of all ages and abilities to come along to the event. We also want to raise awareness of the fact that cycling is an activity that people with disabilities can enjoy, and there will be plenty of bikes for them to have a go on."

In addition to the try-out tracks and a series of led cycle rides setting off from the park throughout the day, festival highlights will include a BMX competition in the skate park area and an Information Zone, where visitors will be able to access a wide range of help and advice from cycling experts. 

Cycling City York has joined up with York-based community interest company Get Cycling to stage the event. Get Cycling has staged a series of festivals, roadshows and other fun cycling events for communities across the country.

The Festival of Cycling will be open to visitors from 11am until 6pm on Saturday 15 August and from 11am until 5pm on Sunday 16.

(ENDS)