Tour de France pioneer opens 1,000th mile of cycleway

28 June 2014........ Tour de France legend, the first Briton to win a Tour stage, Brian Robinson opens a new National Cycle Network route in Castleford, which takes the network over the 1,000mile mark in Yorkshire.Picture Scott Merrylees SM1003/86c

The 83-year-old cut the ribbon to officially open Castleford Greenway in Savile Park. Mr Robinson was the first Brit to complete the Tour de France and win a stage.

The new path has been created by Wakefield Council and cycle charity Sustrans.

The opening was also marked with a family funday. Youngsters enjoyed a bouncy obstacle course, spinning bike sessions, Nordic walking, stalls and refreshments. Members of the Wakefield Cycle Forum also took a quick ride down the path to mark the occasion.

Coun David Dagger, cabinet member for transport and highways, said: “As a council we are committed to having opportunities for our residents to enjoy cycling and walking and we are extremely pleased that the 1,000th mile of cycleway has landed in Castleford.

“With the Tour de France approaching this is sure to inspire residents to get on their bikes this summer.”

Dave Stevens, from Sustrans Yorkshire, said: “Yorkshire now has a fantastic range of cycle routes throughout the county and the largest amount in Britain. But you don’t have to be an elite athlete to get on your bike. Cycling is a fun, free activity, which the entire family can enjoy.”