Bike festival is back

Comrie Croft is set to return next year

A family-friendly weekend cycling festival is to return to Comrie Croft next year, it was announced this week.

Cream o’ the Croft will be held from June 15 to 17.

The main race on the Saturday will be the COTC Enduro, which will use every inch of the venue’s trail centre to test the mettle of mountain bikers on a variety of timed stages – ranging from a difficult black downhill to an exciting dual slalom spectator stage.

Mini enduro and toddler bike races will take place on the fun and easier trails, giving younger riders an opportunity to demonstrate their skills.

For those looking to take things even less seriously informal bike races such as the crowdpleasing extreme balance bike championships are set to return.

Aaron Gray of organisers Muckmedden Events said: “I’m so excited to be hosting Cream o’ the Croft next year.

“We normally rotate our festivals, year about. However, the format has proven to be so popular since our first Cream o’ the Croft in 2015 we just have to stage it again in 2018.

“We’re kicking off the school summer holidays in Comrie.

“I think people enjoy the festival so much because the mountain biking is just one of the many elements to keep both adults and kids entertained over the weekend.

“The hardened bike racers and enthusiasts can bring their friends and family along, knowing that they will have just as much fun off the bike.

“Cream o’ the Croft is perfect for everyone who loves the outdoors.

“It is especially good for families with young kids as admission to under-6s is completely free and, apart from food and drink, all activities and entertainment are included in the entry fee for anyone over six. This means parents aren’t constantly reaching for money.

“Camping is on-site too so adults can have a few drinks and watch some bands while the kids enjoy acres of traffic-free countryside and a bunch of fun activities.”

Booking is being offered at a ‘super early bird’ discounted rate until January 8 and a ‘standard early bird’ rate until February 8.

• See www.muckmedden.co.uk