Boris Johnson and Kelly Brook team up again to launch 2011 London Sky Ride

Boris Johnson was yesterday joined for the third year in the row by model Kelly Brook to launch the Mayor of London’s Sky Ride which takes place this year on Sunday 4 September on a traffic-free 7.2-mile route in the heart of the capital.

This year’s circular route brings the riders closer to the London Eye than in previous years, then heads over Westminster Bridge and past the Palace of Westminster, onto the Mall, through Trafalgar Square, and along the Embankment towards the Tower of London.

Roads will be closed to traffic from 9.30am to 4.30pm for the event, which last year attracted some 85,000 cyclists. This year, four-time Olympic champion Sir Chris Hoy plans to be among those taking to the streets of the city where he hopes to defend the three titles he currently hold in less than 12 months’ time.

Mr Johnson, said: “London's fantastic Sky Ride is going from strength to strength, helping people of all ages and experience to enjoy the capital's most iconic sights on two wheels.

“I urge people to dust off their saddles for this free and family-friendly event to enjoy whizzing through the city on traffic free roads. This is a key part of my cycling revolution which aims to make London a cycle-friendly city, encouraging more and more people that pedal power is the way forward.”

Ms Brook, who acts as Sky Ride ambassador, and plans to take to London’s streets on the day, added: “Cycling is a fun way to spend time with friends and keep in shape. This will be my third year supporting the Mayor of London’s Sky Ride and I can’t wait for the 4th September to come around.

“It’s such a fantastic way to get out on your bike and enjoy the sights of the capital in your own time, with friends or family. Plus there is loads of stuff going on throughout the day to enjoy on and off your bike. So what are you waiting for? Come down and join me for a fun-packed family day out!”

Among the entertainment and other activities on offer throughout the day will be a variety of music played on the bandstand at St James’s Park, a Keep Cycling Zone where riders ca find out information on all aspects of cycling and even meet Sir Chris Hoy if they’re lucky, as well as activities for kods and a Family Zone.

Full details can be found on the Go Sky Ride website.