Torbay’s Velopark in Clennon Valley, Paignton, has just celebrated its one year anniversary.

The £800,000 facility was funded by both British Cycling and Torbay Council and has attracted over 11,000 community users in its first year.

The 1.5km closed road circuit offers professional coaching sessions provided by British Cycling qualified instructors. However, you don’t have to be an expert cyclist to enjoy the facility as it’s a good place to learn to ride or develop cycling skills for all the family and all ages. Learn to ride sessions and bikeability sessions are available at the Velopark too. There are also opportunities for multi-sport use and a roller skating club currently hires the circuit on Thursday evenings.

Torbay Council’s Executive Lead for Community Services, Councillor Robert Excell, said: “The Velopark has proved to be a fantastic success over the past twelve months and an invaluable addition to Torbay’s sporting infrastructure. Open daily, the Velopark provides people of all riding abilities with a safe place to ride, have fun and keep fit together.”

Regional Development Manager for British Cycling, Will Newton, commented: "We’re very pleased with the cycling opportunities that our investment in Torbay Velopark has provided over the facility's first year of operation, for coaching and racing as well as recreational cycling participation.

“More people than ever before are riding their bikes in the UK and it is fantastic that the facility has performed so well in its first year. British Cycling looks forward to an increase in this activity as the circuit becomes more widely known both to Torbay residents and those further afield.”

The Velopark offers a variety of bikes to hire from £4, trikes and recumbent bikes are also offered. Prices to ride start at £1.50 per hour and there are several memberships available to regular users of the Park. Come and bring a picnic and have fun!