A free cycling event will take place across Glasgow. 

The Ford RideGlasgow FreeCycle is set to take place on June 9 on traffic-free roads past the historic Glasgow Green, Merchant City, and George Square, among others.

Cyclists of all ages and abilities will be able to ride through the heart of the city during the community cycling event.

George Square will host one of two Festival Zones and will feature various activities from bike stunt shows and street performances to cycle skills training and inclusive open cycle sessions.

Katie Archibald, a double Olympic champion who is currently preparing for the 2024 Paris Olympics, said: “As someone who knows the roads of Glasgow extremely well, I am excited that the people of the city are going to be able to enjoy them on the traffic-free route at the Ford RideGlasgow FreeCycle.

“Cycling is great for the body and mind and the more people we can get on two wheels the better – and there is no better place than Glasgow for that.”

The event builds on the council’s pledge to create a bike-friendly city and Glasgow Life’s activities to support people of all ages to enjoy the benefits of cycling.

Bailie Annette Christie, chair of Glasgow Life and city convener for Culture, Sport and International Relations, said they are encouraging people to get on a bike for recreation, sport, and travel to enjoy the benefits to physical and mental health.

Theresa Campbell, vice-chair of Scottish Disability Sport, who attended with Peter McGuire, former Paralympian boccia player, said: “People with disabilities from across Scotland will be able to try out adaptive bikes in a supportive and welcoming environment and to enjoy the freedom of traffic-free cycling."

John Bachtler, chairperson of Clyde Cycle Park, hopes the new event will continue to realise the possibilities of cycling.

He added: "For projects like Clyde Cycle Park in Cambuslang, we can see that the investment is encouraging more people to recognise the potential of cycling and to get on their bikes for journeys to work, the shops and leisure."

Carol Thompson, project manager at Sunny Cycles, said having traffic-free roads during Ford RideGlasgow FreeCycle will encourage families and new cyclists to take on a new challenge.

Jack Mills, centre manager at The Loading Bay, said: "We want to get as many people on bikes as possible as we know firsthand the benefits these can have on mental and physical wellbeing for people of all ages."

The Festival Zone is open across the weekend at George Square, between midday and 7pm on June 7, 10am and 7pm on June 8, and 10am and 5pm on June 9.

The Glasgow Green Festival Zone will be available between 10am and 5pm on June 9.

Those without a bike can rent an OVO bike from one of the many stations across the city.

For more information, go to www.fordrideglasgow.co.uk.