Cycling enthusiasts are encouraging people to try out a packed programme of free activities at the Cumberland Cobbler Solway Coast Cycling Festival.
Following the success of last year’s event, closed circuit town centre racing returns to Silloth on Sunday June 8, between 10am and 5pm.
This year sees a new route with more of the circuit on hard surface, but this is still a tight, technically demanding course with a significant stretch of cobbles and a lot of corners to test skills.
All cycling events are organised by Carlisle Cycling Association with support from British Cycling.
Fiona Graham, of Carlisle Cycling Association, said: “We will be running races on Silloth’s iconic cobbled streets throughout the day to challenge the riders and entertain the public. We also want to showcase the beautiful Solway Coast and show visiting cyclists that there is more to Cumbria than the central Lake District.”
Organised by Cumberland Council, the main festival activities will be held on Silloth Green.
This year’s event will include special guest GB cyclist Philip Hines, Crank It cycling activities including jump track, time trail course, skills challenge coaching and balance bike races, BMX showcase, fun fairs, live music and a producers’ market.
Jack Humphreys, of Crank It, said: “We’re really excited to be a part of the cycling festival this year. It’s going to be a great day filled with fun adventures for the whole family! Crank It will be bringing our usual include cycling shenanigans designed for everyone be that a seasoned rider or someone new to pedalling! Smiles and laughs included.”
Jessica Shay, of Everybody’s Cycling, added: “We are delighted to be supporting the festival as our goal as a charity is to enable everyone to experience cycling and enjoy all the benefits that cycling can bring.
“Our free cycle try-out features fun and unique cycles including tandems, tricycles, modern miniature penny farthings, recumbent KMX karts, eccentric-wheeled bikes, children’s bikes and many more. Our try-out is fully inclusive and provides the ideal opportunity for people with additional needs or who are new to cycling, to discover the wide range of cycles available.”
The event is part-funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The remaining funds have been provided by SIIF and Cumberland Council.
This is the fourth time the Solway Coast Cycling Festival has taken place in Silloth.
