Southampton city centre was awash with colour on Saturday as dozens of cyclists took to the streets for the city's annual Glow Ride.

Bikers dressed in Christmas fancy dress decorated their bikes with flashing lights and luminous colours in a bid to promote cycling as an active way of moving around Southampton and encourage safer streets.

Organised by Kidical Mass, cyclists of all ages took part in the event which brought smiles to the faces of Christmas shoppers when they gathered in Guildhall Square as the sun set on Saturday afternoon.

The convoy made their way to the Bargate, playing festive music and dressing as seasonal characters, including Father Christmas and the Grinch.

Jody Slater co-organised the event for the second year in a row. Speaking to the Echo, she said: “Kidical Mass is an international movement to support safer streets for all and particularly safe infrastructure for families cycling and it promotes cycling as a practical means to get about.

“This is the loveliest event of the year because the kids absolutely love it. It’s always nice to see everybody lit up but there’s always a nice atmosphere in town and it makes for a really nice event.

“The event has really grown over time, it's the second year I’ve been involved – we ride throughout the year – it’s a really positive thing and we’re always quite a big group. It gets cyclists seen and anyone is welcome to get involved.”

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John Bingham dressed as Santa for the occasion and event decorated a Christmas tree that was attached to the back of his bike.

He said: “I took part in our first event several years ago and have been less involved as time has gone on but I still love being part of it.

“When people see the bike and the Christmas tree poking out the back of it, they give you a wave and it brings a smile to people’s faces, which is what it’s all about.

“The whole point of events like these is that we’re trying to encourage people to cycle and promote it as best we can. It’s a great way to get around the city.”

Richard James joined the mass cycle in his three-wheeled Alleweder Velomobile.

He added: “It’s got two steering wheels at the front and one driving wheel at the rear.

“It takes some getting used to but when you ride one of these you get used to the stares and the reactions. I have definitely brought it out today to show off, for sure.

“It’s a lot of fun and this event is always good to be part of.”

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