The Isle of Wight is adding a touch of celebrity to its Cycling Festival this year, with TV gardener Charlie Dimmock officially opening the event on September 15th.

The Festival will launch at Sea close Park, Newport, with a fantastic Cycle Show as well as many other cycling experiences to participate in.

Ms Dimmock will be present at the crazy ‘Sink or Swim’ cycle the Medina event, which will see cycle eccentrics create pedal powered crafts that will get them from one side of the river to the other – hopefully without getting wet!

A team of firefighters from the island – who are planning to cycle to the Vatican in Rome for charity – will also be at the opening ceremony, which is set to be an exhilarating day out for all the family.

Taking place from 15 – 23 September, the event offers a range of on and off road cycling challenges for all ages and abilities, as well as plenty of excitement for the spectators. Why not get on your bike and take in some of the spectacular scenery the island has to offer – with more than 20 cycle routes to visit, there really is something for everyone.

Solo saddlers may even find friendship, or more, during the special “singles” cycle which takes place on Saturday 22nd. The ride leaves from Shanklin railway station at 2pm and goes via Godshill back to Shanklin. Pre-booking for the event is essential, so visit www.sunseaandcycling.com for further details on this or any other activity during the festival.