IPSWICH: It was a cycling enthusiast’s paradise as people from across the town gathered for Ipswich’s first cycling festival.

Organised by Ipswich Borough Council, the Ipswich Cycling Festival included a range of fun-filled activities for people of all ages.

From face-painting and bike art, to safety demonstrations and test rides, the event saw the town turned into a hub for keen cyclists.

Between 9am and 10am yesterday, the Cornhill marked the starting point for a car-free zone for both young and older cyclists to use. Meanwhile, the Get Cycling Roadshow allowed visitors to try different various kinds of bicycles.

The Genesis Green Bike project, which opened in Holywells Park last year, was also on hand to hire out bikes to any keen cyclists wishing to try out the route.

James Young, events manager for Ipswich Borough Council, said the event had been a big success.

He said: “It’s a great thing for Ipswich because it’s raising awareness of bike safety and healthy living.

“There were lots of people getting involved and it’s fantastic to see people enjoying events like this in the town centre.

“It’s definitely an event which we will be running next year.”

The festival was supported by the Suffolk County Council’s road safety team, Suffolk police and local cycling clubs.

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