So that cyclists meet Bike Doctor Steve (from Outdoors Ramsey) and not a medical Doctor, The Northern Neighbourhood Policing Team are pleased to announce the Ramsey Safe Cycling Challenge, 12:30 to 3:00pm on Sunday 6th of September at Mooragh Park, Ramsey.

With the new school year just around the corner our thoughts return to school safety and our attempts to minimise the number of incidents involving young cyclists. As a result of this, a ‘cycle challenge partnership’ has been formed between:

• Northern Neighbourhood Policing Team
• Department of Home Affairs Road Safety Team
• “Outdoors Ramsey” cycle shop
• Ramsey Town Commissioners
• Dr Allinson, Ramsey Group Practice
• Ramsey Youth Club (who are sponsoring the prizes)

There will be three challenges organised by the Road Safety Team:

• Who can ride the slowest
• Who can complete a slalom course in the safest manner
• Highway Code knowledge.

Prizes will be awarded in two age groups - primary schools children and secondary school pupils.

Bike Doctor aka Steve Parker from Outdoors Ramsey will be onsite to advise owners on how to keep their bikes in tip top condition. A selection of helmets and safety equipment will be available on the day.

PC Chloe Keegan of Ramsey Police said: “With the new school year looming this is the ideal opportunity for young cyclists to hone their cycle skills in a fun way. We encourage cyclists to wear a helmet and with the selection available there is no excuse for not wearing one. For the sake of ?20 you could have a headache rather than a life changing condition.”

To take part simply enrol on the day at the Road Safety Promotions vehicle which will be in place at the car park next to the skate park from 12:30. There is no cost to enter any of the competitions.

Although the event is targeted at the young cyclist, you are never too old to up-skill so cyclists of any age and ability are welcome to take the challenges.

Thanks were extended to Ramsey Youth Club who are very kindly sponsoring the prizes.

In the event of inclement weather, another date will be publicised