As the millions of people who have started cycling since lockdown look to continue their new-found habit, British Cycling and HSBC UK have announced their plans to get more people cycling this summer, with more opportunities than ever to play a part in creating a greener, fitter, healthier Britain in their local area.

Kicking off with 20 locally-organised community events for the whole family to enjoy, the HSBC UK Let’s Ride Summer of Cycling (Friday 23 July – Sunday 22 August) is all about capturing an unforgettable festival spirit. Activities will take place in England, Scotland, and Wales, and include:

• A Strava Challenge – entrants must log four hours of cycling between Saturday 24 July and Monday 16 August to be in with the chance of winning new bikes for their friends or family.
• 20 community events - a range of cycling activities from go ride racing for children, family riding around a traffic-free circuit, local entertainment, as well as food and drink stalls.
• School holiday coaching camps and Go-Ride racing opportunities for children.

Speaking ahead of the launch, British Cycling’s Cycling Delivery Director, Danielle Every, said:

“We’re disappointed that we’re not able to run our popular city events again this year, however, although the HSBC UK Let’s Ride Summer of Cycling is slightly different to the programme of city centre events people are so used to in the summer months, we believe that we have still managed to capture the essence of what works best – a fun and free family day out with a real festival-feel with more opportunities than ever for people to get involved on their bikes across the country.”

“Alongside HSBC UK, we are passionate about bringing about positive change through cycling and there really is no better time to get involved.”

With full details hosted on dedicated microsite Let’s Ride Local, families can take the opportunity to find new places to ride in their local area thanks to a revamped route finder and join fun and sociable women-only and family-friendly rides. Anyone looking to take their cycling to the next level can take part in entry-level racing and sportives.

Sam Robson, Head of British Cycling Partnership at HSBC UK, added:

“Our partnership with British Cycling is about getting more people to experience the simple pleasure of riding a bike, whether they are a seasoned rider or completely new to cycling. The HSBC UK Let’s Ride Summer of Cycling has been designed with grassroots in mind, giving people the opportunity for a summer to remember with all the family.

“Hundreds of thousands of people have taken part in our Let’s Ride events over the last few years, and we are looking forward to seeing many thousands more enjoy the Summer of Cycling, all helping work towards a greener, fitter, healthier Britain.”

Over 119,000 people took part in HSBC UK Let’s Ride events in 2019 on traffic-free streets. To find out more information visit: www.letsridelocal.co.uk.