THOUSANDS of cyclists pedalled along traffic-free streets as York staged its second Sky Ride during a weekend celebration of cycling.

Just a couple of months after the Tour de France Grand Depart saw the world's greatest cyclists whizz through the city centre, yesterday was the turn for ordinary cyclists, young and old.

Russell Downing, English road-racer and 2013 National Circuit Race Champion, joined them in the 5.6km circular ride, which set off from the Eye of York and headed along the riverside to Millennium Bridge before returning to the city centre and heading along historic streets and past the Minster.

Mr Downing, 36, from Rotherham, who has previously ridden for Team Sky, said the Sky Ride was a great way of encouraging cyclists out on to the streets.

"Who knows, there could be someone young taking part today who gets addicted to it at seven, like I did, and lets it run their life."

Meanwhile Rowntree Park hosted the York Festival of Cycling all weekend, featuring have-a-go sessions on everything from penny farthings to electric bikes and tandems, a KMX track for pedal-powered racing fun around a narrow twisting circuit and a Viking try-out zone for under six year olds to show mum and dad their pedalling prowess.

An airbag was on hand for BMXers to try out their tricks and come down to earth safely without a bump, and North Yorkshire Police's Cycle Response Team provided advice on safety, security and cycling legally , while The Clan gave a lesson in breathtaking bicycle control on a specially built trick stage.

York Press:
A rider from The Clan stunt team entertains visitors at the Festival of Cycling in Rowntree Park