The sun shone on the first ever L’Eroica Britannia, which was declared a massive success with around 30,000 visitors flocking to Bakewell for the three-day festival.
Two thousand people – many of whom had travelled from around the world to take part – were participants in the Eroica UK ride which saw them cycle through the Peak District on 30, 55 or 100 mile routes on pre-1987 bikes and dressed in retro apparel. Riders enjoyed a heroes welcome at Hartington, Tideswell and Eyam along the way where local produce was laid out for them to enjoy.
Celebrating the Best of British the event at Bakewell Showground comprised a variety of fascinating stalls and a vibrant and exciting programme of events. Social media channels were swamped with congratulations and tales of appreciation, while many of the 160 vendors have already registered to be considered for 2015. Tim Hubbard from the Eroica Britannia team said, ‘We have worked for two years to bring this event to the UK and we are delighted with the results. To have captured the imagination of such a huge number of people including residents and businesses from the local area means everything to us and we are proud of our festival and ride and the opportunity this gives to showcase the region and our passion for heroic cycling.’
