Bath Chronicle

Bike Bath adds new sites as it gears up for a return

- Olivia Scull Reporter oliviaalex­andra.scull@reachplc.com

After a Covid-affected 2020, Bike Bath returns this month with additional start and finish options in both Frome and Devizes.

The new start and finish locations for 2021 have been made possible thanks to the support of Frome RFC and Devizes Sports Club, providing riders from across Somerset and Wiltshire with an opportunit­y to join the event.

Registrati­on for the popular sportive on Sunday, August 22, is currently open, with numbers capped at 1,000 and places selling fast. The event is being supported by local cycling club VC Walcot and funds are being raised for supported charity Dorothy House Hospice.

All entrants will receive a medal and food from local suppliers at the feed stations on the medium and long routes.

Following their ride, cyclists will be able to relax at the event villages at Bath Recreation Ground, Frome Rugby Club or Devizes Sports Club where there will be post-ride food and drink available.

There are three different route options with 25-, 50- and 70-mile signposted routes from each venue to cater for all ages and abilities.

Jacko Jackson, event director for Bike Bath, said “The idea behind Bike Bath has always been to provide something for everyone.

“The short route in particular is designed with families, new cyclists and new cycle-commuters looking to spend an enjoyable day trying out cycling for leisure in mind.

“For regular cyclists or those looking for something more adventurou­s, we have designed longer routes of around 50 and 70 miles to take in some of the more challengin­g lanes across the Somerset and Wiltshire countrysid­e.

“This year we have added the two new start venues in Frome and Devizes to open the event up to more people and are also looking to promote initiative­s around active travel, particular­ly as many people return to work after Covid restrictio­ns lift.”

Among the supporters for Bike Bath’s 10th anniversar­y year is Bath-based commercial property company HPH which has a portfolio of commercial property throughout the South West, with its latest opportunit­y being at 23 Gay Street in Bath.

Lindsay Holdoway, managing director at HPH, said: “HPH are very pleased to be sponsoring Bike Bath in its 10th year. As a carbon neutral company delivering carbon neutral premises, we continue to focus on health, wellness and reduced environmen­tal impact.”

Entry fees for adults are £30 for the medium and long routes and £25 for the short route, with children charged £15.

Jacko said: “We provide a package for corporate teams and charities looking to offer sponsored places to employees and supporters. Last year, our riders supported 18 separate charities both individual­ly and through charity-organised entry. We’d encourage any businesses and charities looking to support their employees and sponsored riders to get fit or raise money to get in touch.”

Visit www.bikebath.co.uk

 ?? Picture: Sportiveph­oto Limited ?? Bike Bath is back on August 22
Picture: Sportiveph­oto Limited Bike Bath is back on August 22

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