Hundreds of people are all set to take part in the first ever closed road community cyling event in Bury St Edmunds which is taking place later this year.

“Bury Goes Biking” will offer a unique opportunity for cyclists of all ages and abilities to cycle on traffic free, closed-off roads around the town centre.

It takes place on Sunday, September 30, between 10am and 2pm, and participants will be encouraged to register in advance, although registration will also be possible on the day, and they will be given the chance to raise money for St Nicholas Hospice.

The name of the event was the idea of eight-year-old Joseph Harden from Abbots Green Primary School, in Airfield Road, on the Moreton Hall Estate.

He said: “As soon as my teacher told us about the competition, I knew the name I wanted to enter, because it’s in Bury and it’s all about biking.”

Jospeh who won an android tablet, donated by Hughes, also said that he would definitely be taking part in the ride with his sister Phoebe and mum and dad.

The event is being made possible through a partnership between Abbeycroft Leisure, Bury St Edmunds Town Council, The Palmer Group and St Nicholas Hospice with support from St Edmundsbury Borough Council, Suffolk County Council and West Suffolk Wheelers.

The proposed route will start on Angel Hill, leading into Bridlewell Lane, along Westgate Street, Whiting Street, Cornhill and Abbeygate Street, before finishing back where it started.

Town councillor Ann Williamson said: “We’re really excited to be bringing this event to the town, giving everyone the opportunity of cycling around, getting some fresh air and exercise without having to worry about parked and moving vehicles. We’re aware that traffic can be a barrier to getting out on a bike so we’re hoping that this event, the first of its kind for Bury, will encourage families to get out together and enjoy our beautiful town.

George Chilvers, St Nicholas Hospice Care’s community fundraising manager, said: “Bury Goes Biking is already shaping up to be a great event and I hope as many people as possible will join us on the day to support the occasion and of course have some fun out in the fresh air too.

“Every single penny people are able to raise for the hospice will make a big difference to us as we continue to provide care and support to people across the area with long-term and life-threatening illnesses and their families.”

Town councillor Jo Rayner, who is also St Edmundsbury Borough Council member for Leisure and Culture, added: “This is a great initiative that I am very pleased to support and wish all those who take part a very enjoyable day.”

To find out more about the event and to register for free visit https://stnicholashospice.org.uk/news-community/events-listing/bury-goes-biking/