Town centre racing returns with a challenging new route

Closed circuit town centre racing is back in the seaside town of Silloth as part of the Cumberland Cobbler and Solway Cycling Festival.

This follows last year's successful event and comes with a new, challenging route featuring tight corners, a significant cobbled stretch, and greater stretches of tarmac.

Organised by Carlisle Cycling Association, with support from British Cycling, there'll be five circuit races on June 8, starting with the Mini Cobbler at 10.30am.

This will be followed by the Youth Cobbler at 11.15am, the Regional Cobbler at 12.30pm, the Women's Cobbler at 1.25pm, and finally the Men's Cobbler at 2.30pm.

The festival, running from 10am to 5pm, offers various cycling activities along with Q&As with GB cyclist Philip Hines, live music, fun fairs, and a producers market.

Cycling activities include jump track, time trail course, skills challenge coaching and balance bike races, a BMX showcase, and lead cycle rides.

Part-funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, this event is the fourth time the Solway Coast Cycling Festival has taken place in Silloth.

The remaining funds have been provided by SIIF and Cumberland Council.

Cumberland Council Cllr Anne Quilter, portfolio holder for Vibrant and Healthy Places, said: "Our free family event showcases the amazing cycling routes around Silloth including the Hadrian’s Wall route.

"There will be a town centre cycling race along with a producers' market.

"Sign up soon to take part in the cycle race.

"Thanks to all the partners that have supported the event, including Carlisle Cycling Association, British Cycling and Silloth Town Council."

The deadline to enter the races is May 25.

To sign up, you can apply online.

Traders who would like a stall at the producers market should contact ellie.jones@cumberland.gov.uk.

For updates on the festival, visit Cumberland Council's website and social media pages.