FAMILIES got on their bikes to roll up, roll up for the Bicycle Carnival at Lydiard Park.

About 30 families attended the circus-themed carnival on Saturday, which saw people dressed as clowns, tigers and gymnasts for a cycle ride from the park and around Hay Lane.

The event, run by Swindon Council, was designed to get everyone into cycling and keeping fit.

Anna Cipullo, cycling development officer for Swindon, led the ride and was dressed as a ringmaster for the day.

“It is all for fun but it is to get more people on their bikes and get them to realise that it can be for leisure too rather than just transport or sport,” she said.

“We have had people dressing up to make it a bit silly and fun to try to encourage more families to turn up and go for a ride.

“All they have to do is follow the leader.”

Kevin Turner, of Grange Park, who was dressed as a clown, carried his daughter, Bronnen, two, and son, James, around on his bike for the event.

“We live just around the corner and thought it would be fun for all of us as a family to get around. We also came because we are new here, we thought someone could show us around,” said the 43-year-old.

“It has been great, the kids have really enjoyed it and, hopefully, when they get a bit older they will develop the interest in cycling that I have.”

There were cycling stalls at the event, which were in the car park at the park, including Change 4 Life, MB Swindon and a mobile cycle medic.

Seven-year-old Sophie Packford, of Highworth, who is a pupil at Eastrop Infant School, came to the event with her family.

“I enjoy cycling, I cycle nearly every day,” she said.

“I liked the route because it didn’t have many tricky things. It wasn’t too tricky for young children.”

Sophie’s brother, Josh, 11, said: “It’s been really fun. I liked biking with other people.

“Sometimes I bike on my own but it gets pretty quiet. It gets more exciting when you’re with other people.

“Coming here was my mum’s idea, she always has good ideas.”

For information about upcoming events visit www.challengeswindon.org.uk.