Big turnout for traffic-free Sky Ride Leicester

Over 12,000 cyclists took part in Sky Ride Leicester yesterday to enjoy a day of entertainment on traffic-free, city centre streets. The event was the ninth in Sky’s series of 12 mass participation cycling events taking place this summer.

Cyclists at the event, hosted by Sky, British Cycling and Leicester City Council, were joined by TV personality Gethin Jones, actress Preeya Kalidas and R&B singer Mumzy Stranger. Team Sky riders Mathew Hayman, Greg Henderson, Steve Cummings, Dario Cioni and Nicolas Portal were also on hand to meet and mingle with their amateur counterparts.

The 9km ride took in some of Leicester’s best-known landmarks and sights while participants were able to enjoy a range of entertainment along the route and at the Sky Ride Entertainment Village including performances from live bands and dance groups, games of Bicycle Bingo and a Wacky Riders fancy dress parade.

Sky Ride Ambassador, Preeya Kalidas said: “It was fantastic to see so many people enjoying a day out cycling together in Leicester and I’m sure having the unique opportunity to enjoy the traffic-free streets was a great experience for everybody.”

Her comments were echoed by fellow Sky Ride Ambassador, Gethin Jones, who said: “It has been amazing to share in this unique experience with cyclists in my home town. It was brilliant to see the streets filled with so many people, of all ages and abilities, out on their bikes enjoying themselves.”

Corin Dimopoulos Sky’s Director of Cycling said: “I’m delighted Sky Ride has returned to Leicester for a second year. Through our great partnership with Leicester City Council and British Cycling, we’re building towards our aim of getting one million more people cycling regularly by the end of 2013.”

Cllr Sarah Russell, Leicester City Council’s cycling champion and cabinet member for environment, said: “It's been wonderful to see the streets filled up again with so many people cycling and obviously having such a great time with friends and family. Everyone was really enjoying the fantastic free entertainment on offer and we are thrilled the event has been so popular once again.”

People in the region inspired by this event can also get involved in Sky Ride Local rides, which run from every Sunday from now through to October in and around Leicester. For full details on the next Sky Ride Local in your area visit www.goskyride.com.