NEARLY 70 cyclists of all ages and abilities completed the five-mile third Tour de Ludlow organised by Ludlow Cycling Support Group (LCSG) on Thursday evening.

The Mayor of Ludlow, Councillor Martin Taylor-Smith, launched the fun ride and was ver y positive about the group’s cycle plan for Ludlow and its work over the past two years.

The route was different this year – the reverse of the past two years, returning to the starting point in Castle Square via Broad Street.

Many of the participants had decorated their bikes and cycle helmets, contributing to the festive atmosphere.

Phil Dent, from Sunshine Radio, joined the cyclists and reported back to the studio as he went along.

There were plenty of winners in a free prize draw, with prizes donated by Ludlow Assembly Rooms, CTC, Merida and Endura.

When participants were asked how many times they had done the Tour de Ludlow, one cyclist remarked that he did it regularly five times a week.

LCSG is delighted with the continued popularity of the ride and hopes that, along with the Lady Halton Loop, more and more cyclists will enjoy the benefits of local cycle routes for both leisure and getting to work or shopping.

If you’d like to join the group, contact Sally Ford on 01584 872224 or email lcsg@phonecoop.coop LCSG aims to encourage, promote and develop cycling as a safe, healthy and popular means of transport within the Ludlow area.

This mission forms part of a larger initiative to help build a sustainable transport structure in the area.