WANTAGE cyclists have taken part in a 'delightful' community event to help keep a local park running.

The seventh annual Betjeman Bike Ride, which is part of the Wantage Summer Arts Festival, again saw a group of 18 local riders make their way to Uffington for cream tea - with the help of the Town Mayor.

Jim Sibbald officially began the ride in mayoral regalia, as the collaboration between Betjeman Park and Cycling UK Wantage raised funds for the park.

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Cycling UK Wantage Chairman John Tranter personally led the Sunday ride, while Chairman of the Betjeman Park Trust and organiser John Vandore called it a 'just lovely' day.

He explained: " It was a really delightful community occasion, the park and the cycling club are different kinds of groups but the ride brings them together in a way that raise funds for the park."

Every penny of sponsorship goes to the venue, which was opened in 2002 in memory of the town's famous poet.

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This year, every pound will be matched from a grant won from the District Council for additional seating.

The Sponsors were Campbell’s Opticians, GC Tiling, Green & Co, Jenks Group, Motorlux, Ridgeway Cycles and Thomas Homes.