As cycling fever grips Surrey a new festival has been organised to encourage more people to embrace the bicycle.

Guildford Cycle Festival will capitalise on the surge in popularity of pedal power since the Olympic medal-winning heroics of Team GB’s Bradley Wiggins, Lizzie Armitstead and Chris Froome on the county’s roads.

The family friendly event at Stoke Park, on Sunday 19 August, will include stunt demonstrations, expert advice on safety and maintenance and exhibits from cycling groups and shops. There will also be free guided Sky Rides through Guildford among other activities.

The festival forms part of Surrey County Council’s Travel SMART initiative which aims to make it quicker and easier for people to get around in Surrey.

John Furey, Surrey County Council’s Cabinet Member for Transport and Environment, said: “Whether you’re new to cycling or seasoned in the saddle, Guildford Cycle Festival will have something for everyone. Cycling should be a safe and fun activity and we’ll be spreading that message throughout the day.

“The Olympics have inspired a lot of people to get out on their bikes which is a fantastic legacy of the Games. I can see this popularity increasing when the Tour of Britain comes to Surrey in September. We’re also looking at bidding to host part of the Tour de France in the future.”

People are being encouraged to register for the free festival in advance. This can be done by visiting Surrey Travel SMART or by calling 03456 009 009.

The event will take place between 10am and 3pm at Northgate in Stoke Park, next to Guildford Spectrum.