Cyclists, skateboarders and families are gearing up for a fun biking and community event in Tendring next weekend.
The Tour de Tendring will be returning to the district’s beautiful coastline and countryside on Sunday, 19 May.
The event will include a host of fun activities at the starting/finishing point at Dovercourt Bay Lifestyles, in Wick Lane, Dovercourt.
The Tour de Tendring, which gets underway from 8am, is organised by Bike Events and is part-funded by Tendring District Council (TDC).
Euan Scott-Batey, from Bike Events, said: “The picturesque district of Tendring offers perfect cycling country with quiet roads, low hills and views to the sea.
“With 60 or 20-mile circular routes, the Tour is an opportunity for cyclists of all abilities to enjoy a day of fully-supported cycling, with signed routes, refreshment stops and cycle mechanics on hand as they explore the beautiful countryside between the Stour and the sea.”
The Essex Pedal Power team, which is planning to give out 4,000 free bikes across Essex by next year in a bid to make cycling accessible to everyone, will also be at the event alongside accessible cycling charity Wheels for All and Essex County Council’s Dr Bike workshop.
There will be food and drink and exhibitions as well as an open day at Dovercourt Bay Lifestyles.
It will include a free swim for bike ride participants with a Tour de Tendring bib, gym challenges with prizes for winners and free classes can be booked by leisure centre customers in the Studio between 8.30am and 2pm.
Alongside the cycling event, Maverick Skateparks and Harwich Town Council will be hosting Skatepark Jam at Harwich and Dovercourt Skatepark, behind the leisure centre.
The skatepark jam takes place from 12noon to 4pm and will include music, demonstrations, competitions and prizes.
Mick Barry, TDC Cabinet Member for Leisure and Public Realm, said the cycling event is a great way to explore the district.
“The Tour de Tendring is not just a wonderful event, it is a great way to get active while exploring the countryside and the Essex Sunshine Coast,” he said.
“We’re inviting charities to join in the fun by either signing up their own teams to take part or by encouraging people to take on the challenge to fundraise for a charity close to their heart.
“There will also be a host of activities, so don’t forget to bring your friends and family to come and support this fun event.”
As well as the traditional start point in Harwich, it had been hoped that a new start point could also be introduced in Holland-on-Sea, but that will now not go ahead due to a low uptake of cyclists choosing the new location.
If you want to take part on your own or with family and friends, book online at www.bike-events.co.uk/tourdetendring.
