SALISBURY’S Mayor will embark on a bike ride through the redeveloped River Park to view the new cycle routes and promote active travel in the city.

Mayor councillor John Wells will be joined by the Cycling Opportunities Group Salisbury (COGS), as they set off from the Guildhall Square on September 28 at 2.30pm.

The mayor’s ride is an annual popular event, and COGS are welcoming residents and other councillors to come along to join in with the bike ride.

Cllr John Wells said: “I am grateful for the opportunity to show support for cycling around Salisbury and welcome the work which COGS have been doing for many years to raise the profile of cycling.

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“Active travel has a large part to play in helping to resolve the traffic issues in our city as well as providing proven health benefits.”

COGS will also donate to the mayor’s chosen charity, Salisbury-based homelessness charity Alabaré, which provides accommodation and support to disadvantaged and vulnerable people.

COGS chair Rob Jacobs said: “We are absolutely delighted that cllr John Wells will join us.

“We are all aware of the mayor’s interest in active travel and should any cyclists wish to join the cavalcade we will be leaving from the Guildhall Square at 2.30pm on Sunday, September 28 to follow either low traffic or traffic free routes around the city.

“This will incorporate stretches of the new cycle path through River Park which has been opened this year. Please come along and show your support for cllr Wells and active travel.”

COGS was set up in 1994 and campaigns with Salisbury City Council and Wiltshire County Council for safer infrastructure for cyclists in and around Salisbury.

The group is currently working on active strategies enabling residents to walk, wheel and cycle round the city.