Residents in Micklegate ward are being urged to get prepared for summer by coming along to a Free Ward Cycling Day next weekend (21 March).

A number of events are being held across the city in March to encourage take-up of cycling as part of the Cycle City York programme. And the Micklegate event, taking place at Millthorpe School on Sunday, 21st March, will offer a number of good reasons to go along and take advantage.

Micklegate councillor Julie Gunnell says:

"As well as offering a number of freebies, the day will involve everything you need to know to both get cycling, but also to continue cycling, with basic bike maintenance advice available. Residents will be able to try out bikes they may be interested in purchasing, get bikes security marked and even get basic repairs carried out. It's set to be a fantastic day".

Keen cyclist and fellow Micklegate councillor Dave Merrett said the day was an essential part of making cycling more attractive. He said:

"People need to know about things like basic cycle maintenance or else when they have a puncture of a bit of chain trouble, the bike just gets stuck away in the shed. This kind of event shows how easy some maintenance can be, and that for other work a helping hand is never far away. A few basic rules can help keep your bike safe and functioning, and can offer a great way to exercise which also brings a great deal of pleasure.

"The Free Ward Cycle Day will involve a free safety equipment give away, a competition to win a bike and led cycle rides so there is plenty of incentives for people to attend".

The event takes place at Millthorpe School Sports Hall, off Philadelphia Terrace, from 9.30am to 3.30pm on Sunday 21st March.