Ride carefully

We put together as many facilities as possible to help ensure you have a troublefree day. But we also rely on you to ride safely and with due consideration for other cyclists and road users. Although many roads are closed to oncoming traffic, this is not always the case and you should be aware of the possibility that there could be vehicles coming in the opposite direction. Please do not attempt reckless overtaking whilst riding – remember it is NOT a race.

Follow all instructions

Every effort is made to ensure that the route is well signed and marshaled. Please obey all directions from police and marshals on the route. If you hear a motorcycle marshal blow his/her whistle three times, move left.

Wear a helmet

Every year we are delighted to see more riders wearing protective helmets, but we would like to see every cyclist on the ride wearing one. More than half of reported injuries in cycling accidents are to the head, and a helmet gives the best protection when the head hits the ground.

Attracting assistance

If you have an accident, ask a marshal for help; they are in contact with the

support/emergency services. To call for help from our motorcycle marshals, give a 'thumbs down' signal. The marshal will do all he/she can to help, providing he/she is not already going to a more serious accident. If a motorcycle marshal slows down to help you, but you have just stopped for a rest and don't need help, please give a 'thumbs up' signal and he/she will carry on. Remember – thumbs down means 'I need help'.

In case of breakdown

Refer to your route map and make your way to a Mechanics Point. Mechanical assistance is free when you show your Rider Identity Card; you just pay for the parts.

Refreshment stops

Look out for these along the route. Most are organised by voluntary clubs and their prices give you real value for money. They are also raising money for their local communities and the British Heart Foundation, so please give them your support.

Rain or shine – be prepared

In the event of very bad weather, watch out for signs to wet weather stations en route. Good waterproofs, like a cycle cape, are essential. Our first aid staff can only supply bin liners and by the time you get one you may be very wet. However, the English summer is unpredictable – it may also be hot, so don't forget the sun protection cream as well!

If you have to drop out

We will try to pick up your bike for you on the day. Call Bike Events (01225 310859) no more than two weeks after the ride to arrange collection. Sorry, we cannot guarantee this service nor can we accept liability for any loss or damage to your bike. Bike Events will hold your bike for three months, after which it may be disposed of. You will be charged for all costs incurred in returning your cycle.

Questions 1 – 8

Do the following statements agree with the information given in the text?

In boxes 1-8 on your answer sheet, write

TRUE if the statement agrees with the information

FALSE if the statement contradicts the information

NOT GIVEN if there is no information on this

1 You should not arrive more than half an hour before your allocated starting time.

2 Your Rider Identity Card will be sent to you before the event.

3 Some roads may have normal traffic flow on them.

4 Helmets are compulsory for all participants.

5 Refreshments are free to all participants during the ride.

6 If you need a rest you must get off the road.

7 First aid staff can provide cycle capes.

8 Bike Events will charge you for the return of your bike.