EVESHAM is gearing up first ever cycling festival next weekend.
Cyclefest spans three weekends during September with funds raised going towards the town’s Evesham Bell Tower Appeal.
The historic event gets underway next weekend (Saturday, September 6) with the first of three events – The Big One – which will see riders travelling to London’s famous Big Ben and back, doing 270 miles in three days.
Mid Worcestershire MP Sir Peter Luff will see off riders taking part from the picturesque Bell Tower setting – with organisers seeking much-needed funds to help reach the £500,000 target to save its future.
Then following the Tour of Britain excitement on Wednesday, September 10, the festival’s second event takes place on Sunday (September 14) riders take part in two more rides – a 20 mile ride from the Bell Tower to Pershore and back or a one to six mile ride around Evesham aimed particularly at young children and families.
The second event is aimed at families and organisers want as many residents to take part as they hope the event can be the festival’s biggest fund-raiser.
And the festival comes to a conclusion on Sunday, September 21 when riders will take part in ‘The Club One’ which sees cyclists depart from the Bell Tower for a series of rides ranging from 40 to 70 miles.
Earlier this year Prime Minister David Cameron lent his support to the event by writing a letter to the Bell Tower Appeal committee.
“I was interested to read of your fund-raising efforts for the conservation of Evesham’s historic bell tower, especially the cycle ride to Big Ben and back,” he said.
“I hope you will understand that unfortunately due to diary commitments I am unable to attend on this occasion. However I would like to send my very best wishes for a successful event and I hope you reach your fund-raising target.”
Dr Sue Ablett, chairman of the Evesham Bell Tower Appeal, said: “Cyclefest should be a great addition to the Evesham calendar of events and festivals
“We hope this festival can capture the imagination of cyclists or those wanting to be cyclists so they are inspired to do more events in the future.”
The festival has been supported by Wychavon District Council and the town’s Tesco store on Worcester Road will be providing sponsorship.
For more information about Cyclefest call Dr Sue Ablett on 07871 285606 or email [email protected].
**MANY items will be on offer when the Evesham Bell Tower Appeal committee holds a charity auction this weekend.
The event takes place at The Ivy at North Littleton on Saturday (August 30) at 7pm.
Dr Sue Ablett, chairman of the Evesham Bell Tower Appeal, said: “We now have over 100 lots and there are some absolutely fantastic things available to bid for.
“We really hope this will be a great fund-raiser for the appeal, taking us ever nearer the £500,000 target, but it should also be a great night.
“We are very grateful to Martin and Stuart Homer of Littleton Auctions for their help with the event.”
