Pendle News Room

The all-day event included sponsored rides and fun coached taster sessions at the closed-road cycle circuit.

Meanwhile the BMX pump track hosted women’s and beginners-only sessions which encouraged plenty of new riders into the sport.

Manny Bashah, Pendle Panther’s coach and keen local rider, said: “It was the best Summer Jam we’ve ever had by far!

“The weather was brilliant. The people came, they rode, they bought raffle tickets, they ate... Everyone enjoyed themselves!

“I’d like to thank all of our sponsors, the kind people from our community who donated raffle prizes towards a good cause, as well as dedicating their time into making this day an awesome one.”

On the closed-road cycle circuit, riders totalled a whopping 566 laps which equates to around 283 miles. This includes an eight year-old’s incredible effort of 21.5 miles!

Manny also gave credit to Panther’s coaches Emma Mac, Andrew Mcghie and Simon Cheung, who coached their very first women’s-only BMX session.

“They absolutely smashed it, for many of the riders it was their first time on the circuit!” added Manny.

Councillor Nadeem Ahmed, Leader of Pendle Borough Council, said: “It’s the pump track’s fourth anniversary this year and Saturday’s event has proved its worth to the sport and to our community once again.

“I’m delighted that so many new faces showed up to try out something new, and it’s all been in aid of a great cause.”

All proceeds from the event are going directly to Sarcoma UK, who the Pendle Panthers are closely connected to following the passing of a member’s parent earlier this year.

Tricia Wilson, who co-ordinates cycling initiatives for Pendle Borough Council, said: “This was another great day for inspiring local people into our sport.

“The variety of activities on offer meant there was something for everyone, no matter their age or ability.

“Honourable mentions must also go to photographers Erika Wilson and Hannah Tipping, Gemma Carter for running the raffle and encouraging donations, all the coaches at CSP Pendle Panthers, and the sounds provided by Andy Bassmentdj and his crew.”

For anyone who wasn’t able to come along last weekend, don’t forget that the cycle circuit is available to book via our website, and the pump track is free and open for all to enjoy.

The Steven Burke Sports Hub is located at Swinden Playing Fields near Barrowford and can be easily accessed from Wilton Street, BB9 8PU.

For more details about both cycling tracks, including how to book, visit: www.pendle.gov.uk/stevenburkesportshub