SWINDON Bicycle Users Group (Swindon Bug) is holding a free cycle orienteering event to encourage both new and experienced cyclists to use the town’s network of cycle tracks and paths.

The event, which will be held on April 26, is part of Swindon Council’s Challenge Swindon initiative, and is one of a number of events being held in April as part of the Think: Swindon campaign to encourage people to see Swindon from a different perspective.

Tamina Oliver from national cycling organisation CTC, and the cycle champions officer in Swindon, said: “It’s becoming even easier to cycle to work, school or to the shops, as the Council is producing an up-to-date version of the Swindon Cycling Map, and the cycle orienteering event is the perfect way to explore the routes at your own pace.”

Participants will be given a copy of the latest cycling map with a number of checkpoints marked on it. They can choose any route and visit as many control points as they want to collect as many points as they can in a set time.

The event is free and will start and finish at Coate Water, although there are alternative start and finish points at the Link Centre and Haydon Centre. To take part, just turn up with a cycle at any time from 9.45am. The event finishes at 3pm.

All cyclists should have a roadworthy bike and are strongly recommended to wear a cycle helmet and bring a few tools and spares to repair punctures.

To register in advance call 01793 763162 or email letsgocycling @btinternet.com. For more information about Think: Swindon visit www.swindonculture.org.