The biggest and brightest cycle event of the year: Pedal Portsmouth Glow Ride!
Thousands of people will light up the streets next month for Pedal Portsmouth Glow Ride — but what is it and why is it more important than ever?
Portsmouth City Council is leading an example to the rest of the world by encouraging people to not only cycle but to do so safely.
A major global report this week said that people need to change their attitudes towards the environment now— before it’s too late. The IPCC (Inter Governmental Panel on Climate Change) report warned of the dangers of global warming exceeding 1.5C.
According to Hampshire County Council, a major source of air pollution is road transport — and one of the best ways many people can help the environment is to ditch the car and walk or cycle short distances.
Portsmouth is a great, cycling city, with 10 colour-coded cycle routes that use quieter and safer roads to encourage less confident cyclists.
Being flat, Portsmouth is ideal for cyclists, and with plenty of places to leave your bike, the city appeals to beginners and experts alike.
The Pedal Portsmouth Glow Ride is estimated to attract nearly 2,000 people this year and will be promoting cycle awareness and safety.
The ‘Be bright, be seen’ campaign is set to light up the city on November 10 as families, friends, locals, and enthusiasts dress themselves and their bikes in lights, hi-vis accessories, and glow-in-the-dark gear.
Cyclist Alex Hazard, 24, said: “It is really important to know how to be safe when you’re cycling, either on roads or cycle routes.
“Portsmouth has really great cycle routes and events like this are brilliant for encouraging people to get on their bikes instead of driving everywhere.”
The Glow Ride event village will open on Southsea seafront at 2pm offering drinks, food, music, activities, advice and a mini assault course.
The Glow Ride cycle route is open until 4.30pm when the main event starts, with prizes for the best-lit cyclists presented at 6pm.
Pedal Portsmouth Glow Ride is for everyone — it’s open to all ages and abilities and will accommodate child trailers and adapted bikes.
To pre-book an accessible bike for riders with disabilities, visit Portsmouth City Council’s travel page.
