Ref. 28417-12SCORES of cyclists braved the wind and rain this week to celebrate a new cycle path linking the ancient sites of Avebury and Stonehenge.

The 22-mile route followed a section of National Cycle Network Route 45, which is currently being developed by Sustrans the sustainable transport charity which encourages people to ditch their cars in favour of bikes and public transport.

The ride took the 35 cyclists from the historic Avebury stone circle, past Silbury Hill and over the Pewsey Downs and the MoD-owned Salisbury Plain Training Area to Stonehenge.

The riders were all connected with organisations involved in the Stonehenge Project, which aims to enhance the World Heritage Site of Avebury and Stonehenge.

Jo Burgon, the head of access and recreation at the National Trust, said: "Since 1986, the Stonehenge and Avebury pre-historic sites have been part of the same World Heritage Site and the cycle ride emphasises the connection.

"This event gave us all a chance to consider how to provide for cyclists within the World Heritage Site."

John Grimshaw, the executive director and chief engineer of Sustrans, agreed.

He said: "Avebury and Stonehenge were built when we travelled at a much slower pace.

"Approaching these monuments by foot or cycle gives an experience of their scale and setting which is entirely missed when driving.

"I expect this new path to become a most important way of truly appreciating these ancient sites."