Pier 2 Pier Ride

This Sunday, 16th June, see the official opening of the new cycle route linking the two very different piers of Southport and Wigan. Using a mixture of towpaths, quiet roads and cycle paths, the 21km route takes in the Victorian coastal town of Southport, the flat lands of West Lancashire and the historic Leeds - Liverpool canal.

The joint event will include two led rides starting from either Pier, meeting at the half way point of Burscough Wharf, where a celebration event will greet the riders with an array of cycling themed activities and attractions.

For those not wishing to tackle the ride, there is still the opportunity to join in and enjoy the entertainment on offer at the Wharf. Attractions will include:

• Street theatre
• Face Painting
• Vintage Bike Display
• Static Interactive cycle racing
• Smoothie Maker Bike
• Tombola
• Information stands
• Art & Crafts
• Music

The ride from Southport will be led by the Visit Team's CTC Cycling Development Officer, commencing from the carousel at the end of Marine Bridge in Southport, riders will gather from 9.30am for registration before departing at 10.15am.

The ride of approximately 12 miles will head inland, crossing Lord Street, taking in the Newlands site, before making its way through the grounds of Southport Hospital, finally exiting Southport on the cycle paths out towards Pool Hey Lane and the quiet flatland lanes of West Lancashire. The final stretch is to Burscough utilising the picturesque towpath of the Leeds - Liverpool canal.

For anyone wanting to ride back to Southport at the end of the event, the Visit Team's CTC ride leader will be on hand to lead riders back to Southport. This will be at approximately 4pm. Riders are however free to make their own way back to Southport or onwards at any time during the day.

The event is free of charge and open to anyone. The led rides will require riders to be able to ride at a steady, but comfortable pace, for about 1 - 2 hours.

Cycle hire is available through Southport Cycle Hire and pre-booking is advisable - contact Southport Cycle Hire - 01704 500 996.

There is an array of bikes available to suit all ages, plus additional accessories  such as tag-alongs, trailers, baskets etc. Call for further details and prices.

Each parent or adult within a group will receive a voucher entering them into a free prize draw, a commemorative brochure of the ride, a Hi Life card and a photo key ring.

For more information contact Ross Adams

Tel: Office - 0151 934 4576 / Mobile - 07825 88 52 43