Bike week is upon us again! Smart Travel Castlebar is organising a number of events to mark Bike week 2012, which takes place from 16 - 24 June next and we are hopeful that people of Castlebar will get behind the events and initiatives during the week.

The annual Bike Fest on the Mall for schools in the Castlebar area will take place on Wednesday 20 June, from 11:30 to 1 pm. There will be fun games promoting cycling and sustainable transport as well as cycle training. This will be followed at 1 pm by a Mass cycle around the town of Castlebar and Lough Lannagh. We are encouraging everyone to participate to show your support for making Castlebar a more cycle-friendly town. The Cycle will start at the Mall and finish at Lough Lannagh Holiday Village where refreshments will be provided.

This year we have a unique initiative to encourage people to 'Cycle to Work' for Bike week. Smart Travel Castlebar will provide free teas, coffees at Lough Lannagh Holiday Village to participants every morning during the week between 8:30 to 9:30 am. This is a great opportunity to share your commuting stories over a cuppa with others. Showers will also be available. Anyone who registers and cycles to work for the week will also be eligible for a free draw and the opportunity to win a brand new bike. To register, contact smarttravelcastlebar@yahoo.com or phone Thérèse at 086 3483414.

Thérèse Ruane, Chairperson of Smart Travel Castlebar, said:

"I'd encourage everyone to get involved with the events organised by Smart Travel Castlebar to mark Bike Week 2012. This year, we have a special focus on the workplace and encourage people to get 'on your bike' to and from work and be in with a chance to win a brand new bike. We expect big numbers this year in the Mass Cycle around Castlebar in show of support for making Castlebar a cycle-friendly town. As always, the Bike Fest on the Mall should be a great event for all young cyclists. So, get involved, get on your bike for the week and play your part in making Castlebar a healthier, safer and better environment for everyone."