Next Thursday 15th December at 5.30pm, 100 people from across MK will gather at The Old Bus Station for a cycle ride through the city centre dressed as Santas.
The riders will include MK Councillors, business and school leaders, primary school pupils, teenagers and vintage bicyclists.
“Last year’s was great fun,” said cyclist Naveed Ahmed: “This year I am encouraging more people to come.”
“Everybody knows Santa has a sledge and reindeer, but not everyone knows Santa has a bicycle,” said Ian Revell, CEO of MK Community Foundation: “Cheerfully stopping people in their tracks, it was a great way to promote cycling!”
Following free Dr Bike services from Cycle Saviours from 4pm, and a Winter Wheelie stunt contest 4.30-5.30pm for a £50 prize, there will be a Mayor's presentation of awards to MK businesses and schools for cycling achievements this term, and a raffle.
Cllr Mick Legg, Deputy Mayor of Milton Keynes, will say: “Cycling is a Council priority. It goes to our cycling strategy and our target to halve our carbon emissions by 2030.”
“For us it’s a real win-win,” said Richard Scott of Volkswagen Financial Services on collecting the Mayor’s ‘Top Cycling Company’ Award last time. “Cycling is good for our colleagues’ health, not only physical but also mental health.”
Santa costumes will be available to borrow for the ride and there will also be free mince pies. Santa Claus himself will be there to introduce a breakdancing display from MK's own Kevin Kallon.
Nextbike is providing 20 free Santander bicycles to use for three hours as well as 100 free for one hour, and will be on hand to help you unlock your hire bike. If you would like to use one of these, please contact cyclingmk@citizensuk.org.
“We want to be part of the MK community,” said nextbike’s Leigh Richards, “really want to be engaged with it.”
The ride will leave The Old Bus Station, MK9 1LR, at 6pm. All are welcome to join.
