Grab your bike and join us as we take over the streets of Southampton on Sunday 17 June

British Cycling and HSBC UK have announced the date of Southampton’s annual mass participation cycling ride, following the success of last year’s free, family event.
HSBC UK Let’s Ride Southampton (formerly known as Sky Ride) will take place on Sunday 17 June, when six kilometres of city centre roads will be closed to motor traffic to give thousands of locals the perfect opportunity to explore their city on two wheels.
The HSBC UK Let’s Ride events seek to inspire more people to get on their bikes, and supports Southampton City Council’s cycling strategy, which – based on feedback from residents – sets out a plan to transform Southampton into a true cycling city.
This year’s event will have a strong community focus, linking up with local attractions, while along the route there will be a range of local community groups, bike shops, local performers and giveaways, with participants encouraged to hop off their bikes and find out more.
Julie Harrington, chief executive of British Cycling, said:
“Last year we were blown away by the response of the thousands of local people who got on their bikes and joined us.
“Along with HSBC UK and Southampton City Council, we are passionate about creating better cities for cycling, and events like HSBC UK Let’s Ride Southampton are a fantastic opportunity for people to get on their bike and take that first step towards making cycling a part of their everyday life.”
HSBC UK Let’s Ride Southampton will be the third in a series of 14 events across the UK this summer, which are a key part of British Cycling and HSBC UK’s vision to get two million more people on a bike by 2020. Over 100,000 people attended last year’s events, cycling a combined total of over 1.5 million kilometres in the process.
Luke Harper, head of HSBC UK’s partnership with British Cycling, said:
“Taking part in an HSBC UK Let’s Ride event is a great opportunity to cycle around Southampton without traffic, seeing its landmarks from a completely different viewpoint. These events provide a great day out for families, those who want to get back on their bike after allowing it to collect dust at home, or for the more experienced cyclists who want to try something a bit more relaxed. Plus, you will be doing your bit to help create a greener, fitter, healthier Britain.”
Sam Fox, Southampton City Council’s Service Lead for Infrastructure, Planning and Development, added:
“Our vision for cycling is to ‘transform Southampton into a true cycling city, creating a livable, integrated, thriving and mobile city where safe cycling is a daily norm’. HSBC UK Let’s Ride Southampton is an important element in making this happen by showcasing the city at its best. With closed off roads, it encourages both regular cyclists and those who cycle less often to take part in what is a fantastic, free family day out.”
Register your FREE place today and full details of the day’s activities and route will be announced in due course.