CYCLISTS headed to Evesham from all over the country to take part in Evesham Cyclefest recently. 

Now in its sixth year the event enjoyed a new location at Hampton Ferry where riders could take part in three different Sportive rides, a leisure ride and children’s fun rides, all taking in some of the best cycling routes that the Vale of Evesham has to offer.

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The event was held on September 8.

The first group to leave embarked on the epic 101 mile ‘Escapade’ and were sent on their way by Wychavon Council Chairman, Frances Smith. 34 riders completed the route that included some long climbs into the Cotswolds before heading up through the Lenches and beyond Pershore to return round Bredon Hill.

The first man back, Adam Zok took just 5hr30m and the first woman, Cheryl Radley took 7hr16m to cover the distance.

The 100km ‘Romp’ route saw 113 riders pedal through lanes and villages around the Vale with well stocked feed stations along the way to keep them fuelled up.

One rider described it as the “Best 100km I have ever ridden!”. 52 riders completed the 38 mile “Frolic” and for several of them this was their first attempt at any king of distance riding which made the presentation of their finisher’s medal all the more special.

Families and occasional cyclists were encouraged to take part in one of the 17 mile leisure rides that were led by members of Cycle Evesham Vale.

The groups stopped to admire historical landmarks along the way and enjoyed a well-earned break at the mid-way point in Broadway.

It was then the turn of the smallest cyclists with children as young as three showing their skills along the riverside path.

The festival continued back at Hampton Ferry where several local organisations were offering their services.

A brand new protein dessert was launched by Roar and received some fantastic feedback from the cyclists who were able to tuck in after their ride.

Meanwhile Halfords were tuning up bikes and Feva Seat demonstrated their innovative child seat. The event was organised by local cycling group Cycle Evesham Vale with the aim of getting more people out on bikes and to showcase why The Vale of Evesham is such a great destination for cyclists.

“It was fantastic to see how much everyone enjoyed the day,” said one of the event directors Marcus Mumford.

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“It takes a lot of work by just a few volunteers to put on an event like this but when it results in hundreds of happy cyclists it makes it all worthwhile.”

The proceeds from the event will go towards the nominated charity Evesham Adventure Playground   as well as supporting the work of Cycle Evesham Vale to promote cycling activities in the area. 

If you’d like more information about adult cycle training, social rides and recommended cycle routes then visit cycleeveshamvale.org.