THERE are just a few days left until Evesham's first Cyclefest gets underway.

The event is in support of the town's Bell Tower Appeal and will see events going on throughout September.

Kicking of the festival on Saturday, September 6, is a group of about eight hardened cyclists who will be setting off for Big Ben at 9am in a race called the Big One.

They will be doing 270 miles in three days as they cycle to the capital and then return.

The following Sunday, September 14, will see a celebration of pedal power, when the Market Square and churchyard are transformed with stalls, displays, static and interactive events, and a range of other activities between 10am and 4pm.

There will also be balance bikes for toddlers to try, a cycle service tent, bikeability, unicycle stunts, have a go spinning and the chance to buy pedal powered smoothies, with Mayor councillor Charlie Homer and Bell Tower Appeal patron Michelle Parsons both lined up to produce smoothies.

Michelle Parsons will also be doing two inspirational talks during the day, at 11.30am and 3.30pm, in Church House.

A family bike ride, being called the Family One, will see cyclists riding a 20 mile circular ride to Pershore will take place and people wanting to take part can register in advance by visiting eveshambelltower.org.uk/Cyclefest. Registration on the day will be from 9am until 10.30am, with riders setting off between 10.45am and 11.30am.

Bell Tower chairperson Dr Sue Ablett said: "So far we have nine riders signed up, we would love to see lots more taking part.

"The hope is this will become an annual event as part of Evesham’s festival calendar."

Pedal power coincides with Heritage Open Weekend, when a number of buildings in the town will be open to visitors.

This will be another opportunity to visit the Ringing Chamber of the Bell Tower.