Aberdeen businesses saddle up for Tour Series

11 May 2017

Scores of Aberdeen businesses are saddling up to support the arrival of The Tour Series in the city on Thursday 25 May.

More than 60 city centre outlets have signed up to promotional activity to show their support for the elite event, which is being supported by the City Centre Masterplan and will turn the city centre into a cycling hub.

Participating businesses, which include national retailers and independent stores, are taking part in the city window dressing competition, offering extended shopping hours on race day, cycle themed menus and drinks and even an aerodynamic haircut is up for grabs.

And be sure to keep a look out for the ‘special’ cyclists that will be popping up across the city centre!

The Bon Accord Centre is also offering free parking for the event. Craig Stevenson, centre manager, said: “We’re delighted to be playing a part in welcoming the Tour Series to the city centre. This is a fantastic and energetic event that is a real positive for Aberdeen and its residents.

"Offering free parking at Bon Accord is a way to ensure that people can enjoy and get involved with the cycling event as it comes to the north east for the first time. We have been working closely with the council to ensure the smooth operation of this, and look forward to welcoming thousands of new visitors to the city centre.”

Visitors to the city centre looking to utilise the free parking offer from Bon Accord should note that access into the Harriet Street car park is not available from 5.45pm to allow for final set up of the men’s elite race. Access to Loch Street entrance remains unaffected.

From 12.30pm in Union Terrace Gardens, there will be a host of free fun-filled activities for all to enjoy at the Cycling Activity Village. Live performances from The Clan Cycle Stunt Team, historic bike displays, bike health checks and a Get About Roadshow are just some of the activities available to enjoy. The local cycling community, including shops and clubs, will also be on hand to talk all things cycling.

Scottish cycling legend, double world hour record holder and world 4k pursuit champion Graeme Obree is also hosting a sold out evening session at Aberdeen Central Library on 25 May as part of the city's Tour Series celebrations.

The Flying Scotsman will be talking about his cycling experiences including his Hour Record and what it takes to go from a club rider to the best in the world - all the while fuelled by jam pieces!

For more information on the window dressing competition, please email cityevents@aberdeencity.gov.uk for details by Friday 12 May.

The Tour Series, Aberdeen Round 8 is being supported by EventScotland, part of VisitScotland’s Event Directorate.