Cast of thousands at Sky Ride Birmingham

Yesterday saw the final major Sky Ride event of the year as 15,000 people joined stars from the worlds of cycling and fashion in Birmingham to enjoy a day of entertainment on traffic-free, city centre streets.

The day was the twelfth in Sky’s series of mass participation bike events that have drawn in over 200,000 people across the UK this summer.

Cyclists of all ages and abilities took to the streets of Birmingham with friends and family for the event hosted by Sky, in partnership with British Cycling and Birmingham City Council. They were joined by Birmingham-born supermodel Erin O’Connor and Olympic BMXer Liam Phillips.

The 8.3km route took in well known landmarks and sights including the ancient St. Martin’s church in Birmingham’s renowned Bullring, the Edgbaston Cricket Ground and the iconic Rotunda. As well as having the opportunity to see their city in a new light, participants were able to take part in a number of activities and entertainment taking place along the route and in the Sky Ride Entertainment Village in Cannon Hill Park.

Sky Ride Ambassador Erin O’Connor said: “It is always a delight visiting my home town of Birmingham and even more special that I have the opportunity to experience the city in a traffic-free, unique environment. 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 such a fantastic initiative getting people out in the fresh air and enjoying cycling and I’m so glad to have been a part of it today.”

People in the region inspired by this event can also get involved in Sky Ride Local rides, which run every Sunday through to October in and around Birmingham. They will be led by fully trained cycle leaders from British Cycling and will take in everything from the countryside and local sights, to historical and art tours. Riders can pick a level to suit their age and ability and will be given a hi-visibility vest to keep. For full details on the next Sky Ride Local in your area visit www.goskyride.com