Cyclists to saddle up and lead Worcester Carnival procession

Cyclists of all ages have been asked to get on their bikes to lead out the Worcester Carnival procession.

Residents of all ages will saddle up for Kidical Mass, Worcester's family-friendly monthly bike ride, and set the pace for the festivities this Saturday (July 6).

Bike Worcester is encouraging cyclists and non-cyclists alike to take part, with the aim of showcasing how easy it is to travel on wheels.

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The group will assemble in the middle of Pitchcroft at 2pm with a departure time of 3pm.

The route will be through Worcester City Centre, with roads cordoned off specifically for the event and marshals in place for safety.

The Carnival procession is expected to include people using the city’s new Beryl Bikes as part of the new hire scheme.

Carnival-goers are also urged to dress up for the Carnival's heritage-theme and decorate their bikes.

Isabelle Michel, a volunteer for Bike Buses at schools across Worcester, said: "Bike Worcester is excited to lead out the Carnival procession on bikes for the first time.

"It’s a great opportunity to showcase how short city journeys are possible by bikes or walking, building on the City Council’s Active Travel Plan.

"Bike Worcester are highlighting improvements city residents and now Beryl Bike users need, especially the priority for a safe route for cycling through the city centre to make active travel easier for everyone, whether it's for commuting, shopping, going to school, or just for fun.”

The organisation also runs multiple travel initiatives, including School Bike Buses, a bike recycling project which sees old bikes refurbished and going to people in need, and the SHIFT scheme, where businesses can make a small donation for each kilometre cycled by its employees to charity.

Kidical Mass Bike Ride events have been taking place in Worcester for two years as part of a global initiative promoting safe cycling infrastructure.

The rides are followed by play and games, making it popular amongst children.

Bike Worcester will also make an appearance on Sunday, August 11, at the Worcester Show, with a stand that will welcome new volunteers to join in.

For more information about the Bike Worcester community visit www.bikeworcester.org.uk.