DOZENS of cyclists came together in Faringdon Park to honour those who have lost their lives in cycling accidents on the roads.

The gathering was the first time that Swindon has hosted a Ride of Silence, an international event aimed at drawing attention to the dangers faced by cyclists while simultaneously being a moving and suitably appropriate tribute to those who have died.

The cyclists assembled at the park, fortunately finding a break in the weather in what had been an otherwise wet and miserable day, before setting out on a pre-planned route.

Co-organiser Jennifer Purcell said: “It was definitely a success, it went really well.

“I think there were about 45 riders taking part and we had leaders from lots of Swindon cycling clubs which was great.

“We got some really good feedback afterwards too with a lot of people saying they were glad they were part of the event.”

All 45 cyclists set off in one big group, heading out of the park, through Cheney Manor, via Moredon before heading back towards Faringdon Park.

The whole circuit took just over an hour.

Ride participant and Swindon Bicycle Users Group member, Rob Derry, said: “It was an enjoyable event, it went really well and was very well organised.

“I believe the organisers said there were around 45 people there but with a few that hadn’t registered I wouldn’t be surprised if there were even more than that.

“The silence was observed impeccably throughout and most drivers were very respectful too so we didn’t get too much stick.

“It was a little eerie riding in silence, I’m also not used to riding in large groups either but quite a few of the people there were.”

While the event has a commemorative element to it, Swindon’s cycling community is fortunate in that they haven’t had a fatal cycling accident involving a motor vehicle for five years now.

However, raising awareness among other road users was a key aim of the event.

Jennifer added: “We rode in a big group because we wanted to make a statement and have a bit of an impact.

“The majority of drivers were very courteous and patient as we went round in a big block.”

When asked if the event would return again next year to build on its impressive debut, Jennifer said: “Absolutely, we’ll definitely do it again next year. We plan to make it an annual event.”