Pedal power at Doncaster Cycle Festival

The start of the Under 14's race at the Doncaster Cycle Festival. Picture: Andrew Roe

Thousands turned out to enjoy the event that brought fast-paced cycle racing to the heart of Doncaster for the third year running.

Spectators were treated to eight exciting races ranging from children under eight races through to the men’s elite race.

The start of the Under 8's race at the Doncaster Cycle Festival. Picture: Andrew Roe

Winners at yesterday’s event included Max Rushby of Pedalsport who scooped the under 16 boys race title and Josh Jackson of Lyme Racing Club who was victorious in the under 10 boys race.

Speaking at the event Martin Maltby, President of Doncaster Wheelers Cycling Club and event organiser said: “It’s been an incredibly successful day we’ve had over 350 riders taking part and around 3,000 spectators turned up to cheer them on.

“There’s a fantastic crowd at the grandstand and people have been enjoying all the other activities here today as well as the racing.

“I think there has been a knock on affect from the Tour de Yorkshire and we have seen the number of people involved this year increase on the back of that, we have particular seen a boost in numbers in our junior categories.

The Under 14's race at the Doncaster Cycle Festival. Picture: Andrew Roe

“This is the third year we have held the festival and we hope it will be an annual event for years to come.

“I would like to thank all the volunteers, sponsors, riders and spectators and everyone who has helped to make the event such a success.”

As well as live racing action residents enjoyed entertainment including a chance to catch a glimpse of the Great Big Donco - a mythical creature created by local professional artists and communities - following its successful appearance at the Tour De Yorkshire.

The festival comes just months after cycle fever hit Doncaster when residents were treated to a glimpse of the Tour de Yorkshire.

Scores of villages in the borough turned yellow and blue for the arrival of the world’s star bikers in April and it seems they’ve caught the cycling bug.

Mayor Ros Jones said: “The Tour de Yorkshire showcased Doncaster’s growing reputation as a hub for cycling, and the return of the Doncaster Cycle Festival emphasised this even more. The crowds that came out show how much residents have taken to the sport.”