Last year CycleWight celebrated its 30th anniversary with a festival of cycling. It was such a joyful event, they decided to organise another CycleFest, hoping it may become an annual event.

The Chair, Tim Thorne, said,

“This year it will be even better, with more led rides to the start, more stands and more activities.

“It takes place at Merstone Station on 4th May from 10am to 3pm. As well as Islanders, we hope lots of cyclists from the North Island planning a weekend of cycling including the Randonnee (taking place the following day) will join the festivities.”

It is going to be a biking bonanza and lots of fun. Here is what to expect:

• Led rides to Merstone Station from Cowes, Newport, Ryde, Sandown and Ventnor!
• Free bike checks with Dr Bike! Try out a cargo bike with our good friends at Keert!
• Try an e-bike courtesy of Wight Bike Eco Solutions.
• Recycle & Bicycle – perfect for cycling gifts!
• Scarrots Lane Bakery for a tasty refuel!
• Really Awesome Coffee to get you pedalling faster!
• Biosphere. What is one? Come along and find out!
• Storytelling!
• Photo competition for the best family photo on the day!

Details of the led ride start points and times will be available on CycleWight’s website, and posted on their Facebook page.

If you can’t join one of the led rides, Gift To Nature has created a downloadable map showing bridleways and lanes in the neighbourhood via which you can make your own way to Merstone Station, PO30 3DD OS map ref SZ527845.

Lots of picnic tables if you want to bring your own refreshments. There will even be public conveniences for the event. Come and share your ideas for CycleWight’s future campaigns on their stand.