Vintage bicycles roll into town for 70th celebration

Vintage bicycles will be on display as part of an annual celebration honouring the legacy of Danish engineer Mikael Pedersen.

The Veteran Cycle Club is marking its 70th anniversary with a full day of events in Dursley, Gloucestershire.

Mikael Pedersen, born around 1860 in Morkov, Denmark. He was working for an agricultural engineer when he helped design the separator, which drew the attention of industrialist Sir Robert Ashton Lister.

Mr Lister invited him to Dursley, where Pedersen would go on to create the bicycle that now bears his name.

A highlight of the day will see members ride into Dursley Market from 11:00 BST, paying tribute to the town's deep connection to the Pedersen bicycle.

The club was originally founded on the 50th anniversary of Pedersen's death and has since become a cherished tradition among vintage cycling enthusiasts.

In addition to designing the distinctive Pedersen bicycle, he also invented Denmark's first cream separator.

The Dursley Pedersen, as it is often known, is celebrated for its cantilevered frame and hammock-style saddle, offering a lightweight and comfortable ride.

Veteran Cycle Club member Mike Thomas said the bicycle played a key role in putting Dursley on the map.

"It changed cycling and made Dursley very famous," he said.

"It's an agricultural bicycle because it was made by a man who grew up on a farm."

Mr Thomas, a passionate collector, also shared his love of vintage bicycles.

"They've got a grace about them, they've got a soul," he said. "I just think they are wonderful things."

Follow BBC Gloucestershire on Facebook, X and Instagram. Send your story ideas to us on email or via WhatsApp on 0800 313 4630.