To announce the new HSBC UK sponsorship of the city’s free cycling event, aimed at encouraging and inspiring people, young and old, to get riding, one of this year’s main event attractions, StreetVelodrome visited Heartlands Academy in the centre of Birmingham, allowing schoolchildren to ride the short circuit velodrome themselves, and to watch the visiting pro’s taking part in exhibition racing.
The festival in Victoria Square on Sunday, 18 September, will once again feature world-class bike performances, tricks and stunts. This year, to emphasise the importance of an active family life, there is a 2km closed road ‘Family Ride’, through the heart of the city, starting and finishing at the event.
Councillor
Stewart Stacey, cabinet member for transport and roads, said: “It’s great to welcome BikeFest back to Birmingham. It is a wonderful family-friendly event where people can see just why cycling is so beneficial.
“BikeFest is just one part of Birmingham Cycle Revolution which aims to change the culture, attitude and perception of cycling whilst improving health and traffic congestion across the region. We would encourage anybody who has an interest in cycling or, anyone who is just looking for a fun day out in the city, to head on over and join us.”
Alex Base, Global Head of Operational Sustainability at HSBC said: “As we create the head office of HSBC UK in Birmingham and move more than 1,000 roles here, it’s great to work closely with the City Council and local community through our support of BikeFest.
“Cycling is one of the ways that we can improve our own fitness as well as reduce the impact we all have on the environment. HSBC has a long track record of reducing its impact on the environment as well as supporting the communities that we operate in.”
www.birminghambikefest.com
