MORE than 50 cyclists helped to bring early Christmas cheer to local charities by completing a CityConnect Reindeer Ride from Leeds to Bradford yesterday.

The festive procession, along the Cycle Superhighway, featured riders including local politicians and sports stars, using adaptive bikes customised with life-like reindeer heads created by artist Nicola Murray. 

The event was raising money for Lord Mayors’ appeals in both cities, with the Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Abid Hussain, supporting Down Syndrome Training & Support and the Wishing Well Appeal, and Leeds supporting the Candlelighters charity.

The festive Grand Départ saw riders waved off from Leeds City Square by the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Jane Dowson.

The riders then lit up the trail as they cycled along the 14km Cycle Superhighway to be welcomed at the Christmas tree in Bradford’s Centenary Square by Cllr Hussain.

Kersten England, chief executive of Bradford Council, who took part in the ride, said: “This event was a cracking way to raise funds for the charities of our Lord Mayors and a unique and fun way to celebrate the festive season locally.

"It showed off the award-winning Cycle Superhighway that connects our great cities and bought together local champions from across the districts."

Guest rider Robbie Hunter-Paul, the former New Zealand international rugby league and Bradford Bulls star, said: “As a professional sportsman it’s great to see initiatives like this that enable more and more people to be physically active, whilst having fun and raising money for some really deserving local charities.

“I enjoyed meeting and riding with the people who are so committed to supporting cycling in Bradford and Leeds and those working hard for the charities which support so many individuals and families in the districts.”

Charity donations can still be made by visiting virginmoneygiving.com/CityConnectReindeerRide.