SOUTHAMPTON’S streets will be cleared of traffic tomorrow for the first eagerly anticipated Sky Ride. City centre streets will be a sea of cyclists for the family-friendly extravaganza.
It will mean cyclists can enjoy the sights of their city safely on two wheels.
Cyclists will be able to ride freely around the near 10km route, which starts in Hoglands Park, then goes up to Southampton Common and back again, between 10am and 4pm. More than 12,000 people are expected to take part in the free event.
As well as completing circuits of the city centre, participants can also enjoy a jampacked day-long programme of entertainment, which will be hosted in the Sky Ride village in Hoglands Park.
Twelve Sky Rides in total are taking place across the country this summer.
The aim of the initiative is to encourage people of all ages and abilities to get back on their bikes and enjoy getting around on two wheels.
The scheme has received plenty of celebrity backing.
Olympic and world cycling champion Victoria Pendleton and multi- Michelin starred chef Jean Christophe Novelli, pictured left, will be attending the ride in Southampton.
They are urging anyone with access to a bike to join them on the start line tomorrow.
Ms Pendleton, 29, said: “The Sky Ride is such a wonderful idea to get people involved in mass participation cycling.
“This is an event where you can really enjoy the city you are from without having to worry about safety issues.”
Mr Novelli said: “I always enjoy getting out and about on my bike and it will be great to see the sights of Southampton from the saddle.
“The Sky Ride events are so fantastic because they are open to all ages and cycling abilities. It’s a really great day out the whole family can enjoy together.”
Councillor John Hannides, Cabinet member for leisure, culture and heritage, added: “I’m delighted that Sky Ride is coming to Southampton.
“This will be a unique way for people to enjoy the city and I’m sure our residents will get right behind the event in their thousands.”
Councillor Matt Dean, Cabinet member for Environment and Transport, said: “The day will give everyone a great opportunity to see parts of the city from a whole new perspective and to get out, have fun and enjoy some exercise.”
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