Second Kidical Mass bike ride for Lymington

CYCLISTS are invited to get in gear for a mass cycle ride in Lymington.

Kidical Mass is an international movement which aims to get youngsters out on their bikes. It’s the second time Lymington has held the ride following the “overwhelming success” of the first event in April in which more than 100 people aged three and over saddled up.

“We were amazed by the turnout last time,” said Lymington event organiser Sally Cowie. “Seeing 100 bikes riding up the high street was incredible.

“It was like Copenhagen came to Lymington. This time, we’re doing three one-mile laps – April’s ride was so much fun that people didn’t want to stop.”

Kidical Mass rides are held to “advocate” for safe, accessible cycling routes, improved air quality, and less congested streets, with organisers saying the rides offer a “glimpse of what a healthy, sustainable and fun future could look like for Lymington and Pennington.

Co-organiser Rachel Parsons said: “For anyone who has visited cities like Copenhagen, Amsterdam and others in Europe, they’ll know that bikes are central to daily life and much loved.

“These cities have transitioned to a more sustainable future, with vibrant high streets and much cleaner air than Lymington.

“With more people cycling, our streets could transform. Cafés could spill onto pavements, more on-street seating, trees for shade, pop-up events, and improved community health. People could still drive and park in the town as well, but it would be great if people feel that they have the option to do either safely.”

People are invited to decorate their bikes and bring friends for the 15th September ride, which will be fully marshalled. Cyclists can get their bikes security coded for free at the town hall from 1pm before the ride begins.

There will be a ride briefing at 1.45pm with everyone setting off at 2pm. After the ride, a local Brownie group will be selling cakes.

For more information email hallgrace@gmail.com