Routes to cater for a wider range of cycling abilities are being offered in the second annual Bike Ride to be organised by the Linkage Community Trust next month (Sunday 19th May 2013).
The Lincolnshire-based national charity, which provides services for young learning disabled people including a further education college at Weelsby Road in Grimsby, has again used the Water Rail Way, which follows the course of the River Witham, and has been chosen for its largely off-road terrain and safety. This year, Linkage is offering three options for riders:
- Starting at Waterside South in Lincoln, participants will follow the route to Bardney and Kirkstead then back to Lincoln – 32 miles;
- Starting at Bardney, head south to Kirkstead and return – 14 miles;
- Starting at Bardney then riding to Lincoln and back – 18 miles.
The event will be in aid of Linkage's on-going appeal to turn plans for a café, shop, horticulture centre and education block at Boultham Park in Lincoln into reality.
Fund-raising Manager Christine Saxon says: "The feedback from last year's successful launch event suggested people wanted more riding options to choose from. That's why this year's Bike Ride gives choices such as a comfortable 14-mile journey to the more challenging 32-mile stretch, although they are all on the mostly traffic-free Water Rail Way. Our primary cause for fund-raising is a local project to provide great new facilities for the people of Lincoln, visitors and cyclists alike, at Boultham Park."
The entry fee is £5 per person – children 16 or under are free when accompanied by an adult. It is open to everyone aged 10 and above, and can provide their own bike in full working condition. Limited hire facilities are available at Bardney and Lincoln: pre-book before the event. With registration on the day between 9am–10am, the ride will start at 10. Members of the cycling charity Sustrans can check bikes before the start.
The registration form can be downloaded from www.linkage.org.uk or via facebook.com/linkagecommunitytrust. Email events@linkage.org.uk for a pack or call 01522 507215. Please return completed forms to the following address: Bike Ride, Linkage Community Trust, Langton House, Lindum Business Park, Station Road, North Hykeham LN6 3QX. Cheques should be made payable to Linkage Community Trust or pay via credit/debit card by calling 01522 507215.
