Saddling up for a fun day out for all the family

Sunderland is saddling up for a fun day out for all the family when cycling's elite visit the city next month.

Circus Skills workshops, stunt cycling displays, children's shows and a walkabout magician are just some of the fun activities lined up for families to enjoy when Sunderland plays host to the second round of the Tour Series professional cycling on the afternoon/early evening of Tuesday 10 August.

Sunderland City Council is laying on a whole afternoon of fun in the city centre's Mowbray Park, ahead of the races starting at 5.30 pm. 

There is also a Princess and Superhero show,  face painting, fun bubble shows throughout the park,  a climbing wall, local musicians and food and drink concessions.

Everyone Active is providing a cycle themed programme including spin bikes and cycle watt challenge.

And Sunderland Community Action Group is hosting hourly practical demonstrations on basic cycling maintenance and will also have a range of cycles available to hire. 

Everything on the day other than the food and drink concessions will be free.

Councillor Linda Williams, Cabinet Member for Vibrant City at Sunderland City Council said: "We couldn't be more thrilled to have cycling's elite visiting our city. But we also want this to be a free fun-filled filled day out for all the family so we've made sure that there really is something for everyone at this event.

"We are taking the safe return of events to the city very seriously so we have also been working hard to make sure that this event can be delivered safely."

Launched in 2009, the  televised Tour Series sees Britain's best male and female riders compete against each other in a unique, team-based format as part of a day of sporting and community-focused activities. 

British sporting heroes, including several Olympians and Tour de France riders have competed in the series during its history and nearly two million fans have watched a round.  

Family activities in the park will run from 12 noon until 5pm followed by the Ladies Race at 5.30.pm,  the Men's Race at 7pm and the podium presentation at 8.15.pm