Bike Fest in gear to put village on the map
Pedal power raises funds for play park in Sandford
Sandford community are hoping they have come one wheel closer to becoming a top cycling destination after their first ever ‘Bike Fest’.
The inaugural Sandford Bike Fest saw many enthusiasts, novices and families descend on the village to take on a challenging route through the area.
The event, which aims to raise funds towards a new play park in Sandford, gives riders access to stunning and quiet rural routes including a 10 kilometre family cycle, a 70 km charity challenge cycle and a fun afternoon at Strathaven Ales Brewery.
The day included a wide range of events featuring classes to help kids improve their cycling and increase safety while still having fun.
Helping towards the cost of the event with a generous donation was South Lanarkshire company Banks Renewables, the developer behind Kype Muir Wind Farm near Sandford.
Trish Munro, of Sandford and Upper Avondale Community Council, said: “The village and wider area have really got behind this event and in realising the benefits and partnerships that can arise by Sandford establishing itself within the road cycling community.
“We are very grateful to the team at Banks Renewables for their donation – it really helped to make the event a success. Without backing we wouldn’t be able to offer the level of safety, security or promotion that contributed to Saturday’s success.”
Colin Anderson, development director with Banks Renewables, attended the day with his children and was happy to report the success of the event first hand.
He said: “I’m personally delighted we’ve been able to play a small part in the success of this event that is itself raising important funds for the local area.
“It really was a family affair, with the whole community involved and my kids left with smiles on their faces, coconuts in their pockets and dreaming about winning the welly tossing competition next year!
“Increasing tourism in Sandford and the surrounding area with events like Bike Fest, which is encouraging the use of the area for cycling and public access, is great.
“It supports the local service industry and in the long run will create jobs.”