Over 170 cyclists took part in the Lichfield Three Spires Cycle Ride which
was started by Michael Fabricant at 9am in bright sunshine in the Market
Square, Lichfield on Sunday (29th June). The ride, organised by the
Birmingham Branch of the British Heart Foundation attracted cyclists form
near and far: one couple came up from London to participate. No first aid
to cyclists was required despite a 40 mile round trip – though a couple of
punctures were swiftly repaired. A shorter 20 mile alternative route was
also available. Starting off in Lichfield, the ride took in a circular
route through the villages of Alrewas, Barton under Needwood, Abbots
Bromley, Blithfield, Handsacre, and back to Lichfield.

In starting the ride, Michael Fabricant said: "There are 3 major killers
in Britain: prostate cancer for men and breast cancer for women, which we
can do little to prevent, and lung cancer and pulmonary-heart disease which
we can help to prevent. Cycling is a healthy sport and the Trent Valley,
our leafy lanes, and the gentle hills around Abbots Bromley all provide
ideal and beautiful cycling country". Michael then wished the riders a safe
and enjoyable ride.