Six thousand cyclists of all ages wheeled their way through traffic-free streets during Sky Ride Bradford.

The free cycling event, hosted by Sky and British Cycling, in partnership with Bradford Council, allowed riders to travel on two wheels from the Alhambra Theatre through to Peel Park at their own pace, while the route was closed to cars.

The Lord Mayor of Bradford, Councillor Naveeda Ikram, said: “It’s a great way to get fit, get ready and make it part of your daily life.

“I intend to get on a bike. I’ve not done it for about 17 or 18 years, but getting involved here, coming out and looking at the diverse range of ages and people here today – everybody from all communities getting together in this beautiful park – makes me feel guilty and I need to get on board.

“I’m inspired to be part of it.”

TV actress and Sky Ride ambassador Angela Griffin, who joined in the event, said: “The joy of this event is you get to go places where cars go, which makes it exciting for the children and interesting for adults.

“There are a few juicy hills there to try the thighs of the parents. It’s great to get together to do something they can all enjoy.”

Team Sky cyclist Ben Swift has recently returned from completing his first Tour de France, which he described as a “childhood dream come true”.

He said the Sky Ride was a great cause.

“You can see how many people are enjoying their bikes out here today,” he said. “Each one I’ve been to, it just gets bigger and bigger.”