Many Wells residents know Strawberry Line: the network of paths enabling off road cycling, walking and wheeling between Shepton Mallet and Yatton.

Developed and maintained by volunteers it has gradually extended over many years but unfortunately gaps remain forcing people on to busy roads. The Strawberry Line in fact forms part of a much longer network of paths called the Somerset Circle, an 88 mile circular route connecting Bath, Midsomer Norton, Chilcompton, Shepton Mallet, Wells, Cheddar, Winscombe, Yatton, Clevedon and Bristol. Like the Strawberry Line there are several gaps.

Now renewed efforts are being made, supported by Somerset Council, to reduce and eventually remove the gaps.

To publicise these efforts around 30 volunteers will be cycling the complete Somerset Circle on 18 and 19 April: starting at Bath and calling on Midsomer Norton and Shepton Mallet they will pass in front of Wells Cathedral at 2 – 2.30 pm on Saturday 18 April, cheered on by local representatives including Tessa Munt MP.

Neil Chippet, project manager for the ride says "Many volunteers from Wells have given generously of their time to develop the Strawberry Line; we are now renewing efforts to complete the whole line and indeed the complete Somerset Circle which will provide fantastic cycling, walking and wheeling opportunities. To do this we need to demonstrate the level of public support to encourage more volunteers, path users and support from official bodies. So please support the ride as it passes by Wells Cathedral at 2 – 2.30 pm on Saturday 18 April.