Saddle up for Lights fun!

The Ride the Lights event has proved to be a big addition to the Blackpool calendar

Lights fans are again being given a unique chance to see this year’s Illuminations close up on two wheels.

Cyclists will be able to take advantage of the Prom becoming a bike-only zone on Tuesday between 6pm and 10pm to see this year’s display in all its glory before the big Switch On party on on Friday September 4

Thousands of people take part every year in what has become the Lights curtain-raiser. There will be live music from Chris Atkinson, Hana Joy, Amy Jo, Distracted and Matt Fitzgerald.

The British Heart Foundation will also be at the event hoping to recruit riders for the Manchester to Blackpool Bike Ride in September.

The Ride The Lights route will be running from Starr Gate, South Shore, all the way through to Red Bank Road, Bispham, so riders will be able to go in either direction and join the ride at any point, with the ability to cycle as much or as little of the course as they like.

Cyclists are reminded they should have safety lights, wear cycle helmets and that trams are still running during the event

From 6pm to 10.30 the Promenade will closed from Starr Gate to Pennystone Road, which is closed at full length. Beaufort Avenue is also closed between Pennystone Road and Red Bank Road, and Red Bank Road is closed from Beaufort Avenue to the Promenade.

Coun Gillian Campbell, Deputy Leader of Blackpool Council, said: “Ride the Lights is always extremely popular and is now a firm fixture on Blackpool’s calendar.

“It will be a great night of cycling, fun and entertainment and I hope everyone will have a fantastic time.”