CYCLISTS have heaped praise on Bewdley after the town welcomed riders taking part in the inaugural Velo Birmingham event.

People from across Wyre Forest turned out in force to cheer on the participants who were taking on the gruelling 100 mile trek, helping to raise £2million for a number of good causes.

The event, which took place on Sunday (September 24) had sparked criticism due to the closure of roads in the region including Kidderminster, Stourport and Bewdley for a number of hours.

But many Wyre Forest residents embraced the event and lined the streets to shout their encouragement and enjoy the occasion.

Decorated bikes were also placed along the route as a welcome while Wolverley Beer Festival doubled up as an official viewing point.

And riders picked Bewdley out in particular to thank the town for the warm welcome they received as they passed through. Many took to the popular Facebook group ‘This is Bewdley’ to express their gratitude.

Velo rider Paul Beevers said: “There were some good crowds on the route but Bewdley, you blew everyone else away.

“The sheer volume of people and their enthusiastic support made Bewdley the most uplifting, life-affirming part of the entire ride.

“I love you all and will be back again (I’m in Hampshire but my parents are in Stourbridge) if only to somehow repay you for that welcome. I’ll never forget it for as long as I live.”

Sue Edwards added: “A big thank you to all the families, supporters and businesses that embraced the Velo.

“My husband took part with some friends and they all said what amazing support it was in Bewdley, from people with bbqs, water stands to the amount of people on the streets cheering them on.

“We went to the finish line and lots of riders said the atmosphere in Bewdley was the same as the finish. Loved the decorated bikes too! Well done Bewdley!”

Elsewhere, Louise Steadman watched in Canterbury Road, Kidderminster and she said: “To see so many cyclists do this very good course - well done to everyone.”

And Kelley Walker added: “It was excellent. Everyone I encountered were happy and smiling. Nice to see everyone's support. My boys loved it too! Boo to the miseries that moaned about one day for a great event.”