Thousands of cyclists made Bradford’s roads their own for the annual Skyride – which organisers said was the best attended yet.

The event sees major roads through the city closed off to give cyclists of all ages the chance to ride without worrying about other cars.

Starting in City Park today, the route weaved through the city centre before cyclists had free reign of Manningham Road to Lister Park. They could either stay and enjoy the events in the park, or return to City Park where there was a stage featuring live bands and food and drink stalls, as well as a chance to meet Sky team cyclist Josh Edmondson.

Starting at 11am, a large number of the riders were families, with many young children rubbing shoulders with seasoned veterans.

Paul Westerman, 39 of Saltaire, rode the route with his son Rhys, aged seven. It was Rhys’s first time riding on a road. Mr Westerman said: “I do quite a lot of cycling but this is my first Skyride. It’s nice to have a traffic-free road, it makes things a lot safer, I didn’t have to worry about him on a main road. I’d definitely do this again.”

Joanne Dodds, Deputy Lord Mayor of Bradford Council, said: “There are so many types of people here today and so many different types of bike. It is great seeing them reclaim the roads for a bit, because I know people don’t always feel safe on the roads. It is a lovely ride for families.”

Dan Goodey from British Cycling, one of the event’s organisers, said this year’s was shaping up to be the best yet.

He said: “It’s great to see so many cyclists come out here at 11am on a Sunday. It just seems to get bigger every year we run it. It is a great opportunity for people to get to see Bradford in a way they wouldn’t normally get to. Events like this are a great way to encourage people to take up cycling.”

To get cyclists warmed up for Le Tour, Darley Street was turned into a mini stretch of the tour, with well wishers waving flags, honking horns and cheering on the riders as if they were Sir Bradley Wiggins.

Mr Edmondson was first to set off on the Skyride, and said: “I’m really enjoying this, I’ve not been to one of these before, and it’s great.

“There are a lot of young people here and I think that’s what it’s all about – encouraging them to come through the sport.”