Bristol's Biggest Bike Ride a success

It was a city on two wheels yesterday as more than 7,000 cyclists took part in Bristol's Biggest Bike Ride.

Setting off from Millennium Square, the hoards of riders gave added proof of Bristol's cycling city status as they took part in the 16th annual event.

Although the event, organised by Bristol City Council, was free, many taking part were raising money for charity. This year Bristol's Biggest Bike Ride is supporting the Lord Mayor's Appeal for Children with the Evening Post.

By donating £1.50, people helped raise money for the appeal, which helps underprivileged youngsters across the city.

Participants of all ages and abilities cycled through the city centre and down the Portway – which was closed to traffic – before heading off on one of five different routes.

The first rides to set off were the 38-mile Clevedon Challenge and, the 24-mile Sustrans Ride to Portishead, followed by the Failand Heights Ride.

Lucy Holloway, 24, a teacher who lives on Chertsey Road, Redland, took part in the 18-mile Failand ride along with her personal trainer Martin.

She said: "The route was 18 miles and quite hilly but I am training for a triathlon so it was quite useful. We started the route to Portishead before we turned down a little lane and headed up to Failand. It was a really nice ride.

"It was my first time doing Bristol's Biggest Bike Ride and I had a great time. I thought it was really well organised and there was a good atmosphere too."

At 11am, cyclists taking part in the Family Fiesta were the last to leave Millennium Square. Their nine-mile route took them down the Portway as far as Sea Mills where they turned back to join the rest of the cyclists at the Harbourside.

At the Lloyds Amphitheatre finish line, cyclists were able to collect ride certificates, meet up with others and enjoy a relaxing summer afternoon despite the odd drop of rain.

Matthew Barrett, team manager of Bristol's transport planning team, said: "We've had about 7,000 people cycling and lots more at the end of the event watching the BMX displays. The whole day has been really successful and we're very pleased. There was a bit of rain at the end of the race but it hasn't put people off and they stayed and enjoyed a nice afternoon."

Families enjoyed an extreme mountain bike show, BMX competitions, whacky bikes, bicycle ballet, children's entertainment marquee, music stage, cycling information stalls and refreshments.