6000 turn out for Sky Ride Ipswich

6,000 people joined TV presenter Jeff Brazier, Great Britain Cycling Team’s Ross Edgar and Team Sky’s Alex Dowsett for the first ever Sky Ride Ipswich on Sunday 12th June 2011. Many more came out to watch and experience the day as people of all ages and abilities took to traffic-free streets for the chance to enjoy the town on two wheels. The day marked the second event of Sky Ride 2011 – a national campaign to get one million people cycling regularly by 2013.

The free event hosted by Sky and British Cycling, in partnership with Ipswich Borough Council, allowed riders to take in the 6km route at their own pace. Participants were treated to a whole host of activities and entertainment throughout the day along the route. With live music, a marketplace, and demonstrations from the Sky Sports Living for Sport Flatland BMX-ers, there was something for everyone to enjoy. Stars from the worlds of cycling and TV took time out to help less experienced riders, chatting with participants in the British Cycling Bike Cafe. And there was plenty of entertainment for young people including a Go-Ride racing course where youngsters tested their racing skills and got great tips from pros and British Cycling coaches.

Local residents Peter, Helen and their son Toby enjoyed the ride: "We know Ipswich really well and they've laid the course out very well – no cars is really nice. We don't ride as much as we should; we've got three lovely bikes and we should really get out more, but after today I think this should kick us into going out on them more often. We'll have a look on the website to find out where there are more rides in the area."

 Browse all the photos from Sky Ride Ipswich or find out about more cycling opportunities in the area.