Inspired  by Spire House - the first cyclists

 The Pennine Cycleway, which passes through Whaley Bridge, was opened in July, with an inaugural ride by cyclists from every part of the UK.  The cycleway runs mostly on quiet back roads or bridleways  from Derby all the way up to Berwick on Tweed - a roundabout distance of 350 miles.

It is part of the National Cycle Network, covering 7,000 miles of safe and attractive cycle routes in the UK.  By 2005, the network is expected to be 10,000 miles.

 More than 70 cyclists, many with big safety flags on their machines, were entertained by Whaley Bridge Town Council and the local Women's Institute to a break at Spire House, the converted church home of High Peak council leader David Lomax.  The house is on the cycleway route as it goes over Silk Hill towards Buxworth, and then on towards New Mills.

 Whaley Bridge Town Council chairman Ron Bowden wished the cyclists well on their long ride north.

Welcome to Whaley; Town Council chairman Ron Bowden  and borough council leader David Lomax with cyclists

Good luck: John Pritchard, borough councillor and member of council executive, talks to some of cyclists

With safety flags unfurled, cyclists arrive in Whaley Bridge

Out to enjoy the ride: Cora Margerison, a carer at a hospice,and teacher Sue Smith from Rochdale.