Shrewsbury News

With officials dressed in Victorian costumes and spectators enjoying traditional Victorian entertainment including barrel organs, steam engines and a funfair you would be forgiven for thinking this is all just an excuse for some summer fun – and for the spectators enjoying a real ale or two from the authentic Victorian pub it undoubtedly is.

But for the riders – this is serious stuff. It isn’t badged “Britain’s craziest bike race” for nothing. Entries are now open and the organisers are encouraging anyone to come and have a go, from novices to experienced cyclocross riders. Entrants can use either mountain bikes or cyclocross bikes, but prepare for a challenge! This is a tough off-road cycle race, for adult and junior competitors alike.

Each race takes in several laps of a gruelling circuit featuring pavements and cobbled streets, wooded trails, steep hills (including the ascent of the Hay Incline Plane) with riders having to carry their bike over several parts of the course. The event will also feature the Telford Balance Bike Championship.

Promoter Nick Jeggo said; “We are delighted that once again we are receiving generous sponsorship from Ludgate Business Finance. The event has become one of the favourites on the Cyclocross calendar with people travelling from all over the country to take part. The event has grown year on year and we’re looking forward to an evening of family fun combined with top class cycling action.”

Steve Grice Director of Ludgate Finance, himself a keen cyclist with Newport Shropshire Cycling Club said, “This is a great fun event, and we are very happy to be headline sponsor again, meaning it can be televised so more people can enjoy it. It’s a real have-a-go race for all comers.”

Taking place at this World Heritage Site located in Shropshire’s beautiful Ironbridge Gorge there is much to enjoy for spectators and riders alike and with the town’s Victorian pub, traditional fish and chip shop and café, all open to provide refreshments, a great family atmosphere is ensured.

Gates open at 5.15pm and the first race will start at 6pm with the event finishing at approximately 9.30pm; spectators are welcome for just £4, payable at the gate; children under 16 will be free of charge and must be accompanied by an adult. Ironbridge Gorge Museum Passports are not valid for this evening; dogs are welcome but must be kept on a lead.

For more details, visit www.queenviccx.co.uk further information about Blists Hill can be found on www.ironbridge.org.uk or call the Ironbridge Tourist Information Centre on Tel: 01952 433 424. The Gorge is easily reached via the M54 motorway exiting at Telford junction 4 or 6. Competitor Entry: http://cyclotours.co.uk/qvcx/race-entry/