Families, communities and cycling fans are being encouraged to participate in a May Bank Holiday weekend of cycling excitement.

Cycle Wiltshire, part of Wiltshire Council’s A Legacy for Wiltshire partnership, is a unique opportunity for people to take to the road on their bikes, as well as experience the excitement and thrill of top-class cycling in their local community.

The Cycle Wiltshire Sportive event is on Saturday, May 3, and gives people of all cycling abilities the chance to take part in a picturesque ride through Salisbury and the surrounding area.

There is a choice of three distances to ride: 20 miles for beginners and 64 miles or 100 miles for enthusiasts and those looking for an extra challenge.

There is also a one-mile route for youngsters and their families keen not to miss out.

The event starts at Five Rivers Leisure Centre, Salisbury, from 8.30am.

There will also be displays and exhibition stands as well as entertainment for all the family to enjoy at the Sportive Village at the leisure centre.

The weekend’s cycling fun continues on Sunday, May 4, with the Cycle Wiltshire Grand Prix.

This elite cycle race, part of the British Cycling National Road Race series, will see 100 elite riders from top professional teams taking part.

People can line the route to support some of the best riders in Britain as they compete. The race starts at 11am and will finish on its tenth passage through Wilton at 3pm.

Jane Scott, leader of Wiltshire Council, said: “This event will be a fantastic occasion for Wiltshire and will create a really special atmosphere on this bank holiday weekend.

"I hope people, young and old, from beginners to cycling enthusiasts, will take part in the Sportive and also support the elite cyclists as they race through our beautiful and scenic county.

“Our legacy partnership is all about invigorating the local economy, bringing communities together and getting more people active and this event will do just that. I look forward to seeing everyone there." 

For more information on both days of the event, and to sign up, visit www.cyclewiltshire.com

To find out about a number of other events in the area throughout the year visiting events.wiltshire.gov.uk and there will be regular updates on Twitter by following @CycleWiltshire