Olympian Pete Waterfield backs celebration of cycling in Southampton at PedalOn UK

More than 400 people flocked to Riverside Park in Southampton for the bike extravaganza, which included a bike-powered cinema and a bike that made delicious smoothies.

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It was all part of Pedal On UK, which is a series of bike rides organised by sustainable transport charity Sustrans and backed by the Big Lottery Fund’s Keeping the Spirit of 2012 Alive campaign.

The Southampton event marked the end of the south-eastern stage of Pedal On’s national cycling tour called The Ride, which started in Hastings on August 18.

And the riders were greeted with a standing ovation from scores of people at Riverside Park.

The national tour has been backed by many Olympians and celebrities, and in Southampton former Olympic star Pete Waterfield – an ambassador for the event – encouraged the riders.

The Pedal On event comes just weeks after thousands of keen bikers saddled up to zoom around Southampton as part of SkyRide.

The Mayor of Southampton, Cllr Ivan White, said: “I think cycling is important for people. It is a way of finding alternative methods of transport other than cars. It is a good healthy choice.

“This was a fabulous event and it is fantastic to see Riverside Park used properly and see people on their bikes.”

Sustrans South Hampshire smarter choices co-ordinator Kirsty Morley said: “Today is about celebrating cycling and this has been a success. The reception has been very good and everyone has been happy to come out. We have got some great success stories.

“We want cycling to become the norm, so more people think about going on their bikes before going in their car.”