Retro cycling came to Christchurch quay last weekend for the inaugural Vintage Bicycle Ride!

Tweed, wool, plus fours, and fancy dress partnered with bikes dating back to the early 1900s made for a stylish event all in aid of Bournemouth hospitals CODA music charity.

Riders arrived, sun shining, to Christchurch Quay and to rider registration for Eleven. With the group departing at around half past twelve there was plenty of time to peruse each others get ups and steeds, all whilst being serenaded by a ukulele band and sipping Pimms served by the Captains club. How very British!

All riders posed for a group photo, jumped on their bikes, and were sent on their way by the Mayor. The group left the Quomps and headed through Christchurch centre, up Bridge street, and through Stanpit marsh. The route took the riders to Steamer Point and to Mudeford Quay before then retracing their steps back to Christchurch and through the High Street. From there the group turned off the High Street, into Druitt gardens, and worked their way back to the quay.

Waiting for the riders on return was fine china and afternoon tea! Each was rewarded with their own individual tea box complete with finger sandwiches, scone, jam, and clotted cream. Dorset tea provided the finest liquid refreshment to wash it all down with.

To finish the day prizes were awarded for various efforts. Best dressed, best bike, and best moustache were some of the highly contested categories! with local businesses donating prizes from moustache wax to cycle helmets.

Organisers and entrants put in a great collective effort to make the day a resounding success, so much so that they already have the go ahead for the event next year! Top fun and Fantastic location, take a look at the pictures below and get yourselves ready for the next instalment!