Cyclists take part in Saffron Walden community bike ride

The 3.8km ride took place on Sunday, June 9, starting at the top of the Common and weaving through town via Elizabeth Way, Radwinter Road, Audley Road and the High Street, before turning into Castle Street and heading back to the Common.

Cyclists of all ages and abilities took part in the ride (Image: Uttlesford District Council)

Cyclists of all ages - including some as young as five, and even a dog - joined in the family bike ride, which was part of Uttlesford District Council's summer cycling event to encourage more people to cycle and to feel more confident in taking their bikes out on the road.

During the day there was a range of information stalls and activities on the Common, including cycling and fitness groups, free property marking by Essex Police and Essex County Council bike mechanics carrying out minor repairs, as well as live entertainment, children's games and a choice of food trucks.

The community bike ride was part of Uttlesford District Council's summer cycling event (Image: Uttlesford District Council)

Visitors were also able to try out the new bike hire schemes which have recently launched in the town.

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Vicky Reed, climate change lead officer, said: "This was our first community cycling event and a big thank you to everyone for coming along – it was lovely to see so many families enjoying themselves.

"We had some great feedback, and it was nice to see so many people trying out the new hire bikes, including e-bikes and the community Our Bike e-cargo bike.

Essex Police offered free property marking at the event (Image: Uttlesford District Council)

"I would also like to thank all those who supported the event, including the local groups, police and fire service, the live musicians and the wonderful food and drink vendors."

The hire bike schemes are part of the Saffron Walden Clean Air Project. These include the EV bike club - where residents can rent an e-bike or pedal bike for up to six months at a subsidised rate.

There is also the e-bike hire scheme, run by APP-BIKE, where cyclists can hire bikes for £1.50 for 30 minutes, or join as a scheme member, pay £5 a month and get 30 minutes free every time they use a bike.