ORGANISERS of the Bournemouth Wheels Festival are hoping to set an unusual record at the event in May.

As part of the Wheels Night Ride on the evening of the final day of the three-day festival, Monday, May 26, thousands of ‘Bears on Bikes’ will be setting off from Boscombe Pier, the Daily Echo can reveal today.

Starting at around 6pm, they will head for Bournemouth town centre to complete a circuit on closed-off roads for the Bears on Bikes community ride, with the aim of making it the most ever seen.

The Bournemouth Wheels Festival is working with Bournemouth Round Table to raise money for the Round Table Children’s Wish charity, which grants wishes to young people with life-threatening illnesses.

Mark Smith, Bournemouth’s director of tourism, said: “This fun and unique event is open to everyone from cycling groups to families, locals and those who have travelled from across the country.

“All you have to do is attach a bear to your bike – or even dress up as one – and register through Round Table Children’s Wish to take part and help make a child’s dream come true.”

Rob Benepal, vice president of Bournemouth Round Table, added: “Bournemouth Round Table is thrilled to be part of the groundbreaking Wheels Festival and look forward to setting a new record with the BoB event. We’re encouraging Round Table members worldwide to get involved by raising sponsorship and supporting Round Table Children’s Wish.”

Bears on Bikes will be the start of the Wheels Night Ride, an evening of entertainment for families.

The community event will feature a fast-paced racing circuit, nightglow spectacular and fireworks to end the evening with a bang.

Register by visiting www.rtcw.org.