Take the Food Chain cycle ride to local to Ludlow producers
A cycle ride with a difference is taking place from Castle Square in Ludlow on Sunday 29 July 2012. As part of a Local to Ludlow ‘Open Days’ weekend 27-29 July, cyclists are invited to join a 29-mile circular cycle ride led by Ray Hughes from Shropshire Council.
The first stop will be the Sun Inn, Leintwardine. Gary Seymour will give an account of the history of this unique parlour pub. The route then goes onto nearby Marlow Farm, where Tammy Hall grows beautiful flowers, before reaching Hopesay Glebe Farm for a tour with owner Phil Moore of this organic smallholding.
The route will continue onto Craven Arms and then join the National Cycle Route 44 heading back towards Ludlow via Onibury and Bromfield. The final entry to Ludlow will be through the beautiful and peaceful Oakly Park Estate affording fantastic views of Ludlow Castle.
The cycle ride will start at 10am on Sunday 29 July from Castle Square outside the main gates of Ludlow Castle. Local cycle shop Pearce Cycles will provide a ‘Dr Bike’ bike check service should any minor adjustments need to be made before setting off. Bike hire is also available – please contact direct on 01584 879288.
As the ride will take a gentle pace and include the three visits, expected time of return is between 4.30pm and 5pm. Although there are numerous occasions to purchase snack food and refreshments on the way, you may want to bring a packed lunch. Under 16-year-olds must be accompanied by an adult.
Rosanna Taylor-Smith, Shropshire Councillor for Ludlow North, said:
“This cycle ride is a great opportunity to visit some of our local producers whilst enjoying some of the special countryside in south Shropshire on two wheels. I am sure all those who join this special trip will have a fantastic time, and Shropshire Council is delighted to be supporting this event.”
Simon Jones, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member with responsibility for cycling, said:
“This ride offers people the perfect opportunity to get out and about and enjoy the beautiful south Shropshire countryside, as well as meeting some successful local producers along the way.”
This event is free, but booking is essential. Reserve your place/s now at www.slowfoodludlow.org.uk.
Further information
Local to Ludlow Open Days, 27 July to 29 July
On three days in July 2012 local artisan producers of food and drink in the beautiful countryside around Ludlow will be opening their doors to the public as part of the new Local to Ludlow Open Days. This is an opportunity to find out where your favourite farmers market purchases come from and see how they are grown or produced. It’s a chance to taste, experience and take home something that is truly Local to Ludlow.
For full details of the weekend plus downloadable please go to the Local to Ludlow website or get hold of one from the Ludlow Visitor Information Centre – call 01584 875053. You can use the map and directions to plan your own tour, or you can book a minibus tour, or join a guided ‘bus’ walk. For more details and booking see www.slowfoodludlow.org.uk.
Further information about the ride available by calling Ray Hughes, Shropshire Council’s Travel Shropshire manager on 01743 253063 or emailing ray.hughes@shropshire.gov.uk
