Six thousand enjoy Bradford Sky Ride

There was a big turnout for the latest Sky Ride, when 6000 people took to their bikes to enjoy traffic-free streets in Bradford yesterday.

The riders joined actor and presenter Angela Griffin, Team Sky cyclist Ben Swift, and GB Cycling Team paracyclists Jon-Allan Butterworth and Tel Byrne while many more came out to watch and experience the day.

The free event, organised by British Cycling and Sky, in partnership with Bradford Metropolitan District Council, allowed riders to take in a 6.4km route at their own pace whilst enjoying landmarks like Bolton Road Lookout Point and Bradford Cathedral.

Sky Ride Ambassador Angela Griffin said: “I had a brilliant time at my first ever Sky Ride today, it has been lovely to meet so many Sky Riders of all ages. Just looking at the smiling faces around me you can tell it’s been a great day, with fantastic entertainment along the route and fun activities for all ages to enjoy.

"Sky Ride is a fantastic initiative, getting people out in the fresh air and enjoying cycling and I’m really glad to have been a part of that!”

The Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Naveeda Ikram, said: "This has been a really enjoyable day and it has been good to see all the families getting involved. The children have obviously loved being able to cycle along with their parents on a route that they would normally never be able to do because of the traffic. Hopefully, local communities will get into cycling more following this event."

To keep the momentum going, Sky Ride Local rides are running every Sunday through the summer in and around Bradford, taking in everything from the countryside to local sights.

Additionally there are bike maintenance workshops taking place in Bradford on August 12 and 13, as well as regular Breeze bike rides for women.