Midcheshire Independent Issue 179

3 MAY/JUNE 2025 Visit our website: www.independentnewspapers.co.uk PDQ LANDSCAPE & BUILDING SERVICES 07763 923005 01270 421405 From inside to outside, whatever you can imagine, we can make it come true. IF WE CAN’T DO IT NO ONE CAN! FREE QUOTE Call Steve sredmond24707825@aol.com THOUSANDS of visitors flocked to Sandbach for its famous annual transport festival. The two-day event, which cel- ebrates the town’s rich motoring heritage and community spirit, was heldunder bright sunny skies. Scotch Common car park hosted a dazzling display of vehicles, ranging from gleaming classic cars and vintage motor- bikes to steam traction engines, tractors, andmilitary vehicles. Visitors also enjoyed open access to Sandbach Fire Station, a children’s fairground in Sandbach Park, and a lively food and drink scene. Livemusic filled theair through- out theweekend fromadedicated stage area at The Cobbles, where an eclectic mix of local and trib- ute acts kept crowds dancing and singing along. Saturday’s highlights included a special Foden/ERF heritage vehi- cle display, honouring the town’s proud industrial past. Sundaysawaperformancefrom theworld-renownedFoden’sBand and the grand vehicle exit parade. Pedal power: The Farmer’s Pants ride returns to Ravensmoor (Photo credit: Jonathan White) Transport festival in top gear (Photo credit: Jonathan White) GET ready to saddle up and smile, because one of South Chesh- ire’s quirkiest and most uplifting weekly traditions is back. The Farmer’s Pants is a free, 11-mile cycling loop that sets off every Friday evening from Marsh Lane in the vil- lage of Ravensmoor, near Nantwich – and yes, the route really is shaped like a giant pair of underpants! Riders of all ages and abilities are welcome to take part, whether you’re out to beat the clock in a personal time trial or just fancy a gentle cycle through the countryside. The loop winds its way through the scenic back roads and ends fittingly near the Farm- ers Arms pub – hence the cheeky name. Founder Paul McIn- tyre said: “It’s not just about cycling – it’s about community, fresh air, and having a laugh. “We’ve had everyone from seasoned triath- letes to folks dusting off their bikes for the first time in years. It’s all about doing something good for your body and your mind.” Beyond the fun and fresh air, the Farmer’s Pants ride carries a deeper purpose – rais- ing awareness for men’s health and mental health charities, includ- ing those supporting prostate and testicular cancer causes The ride happens at 6pm most Fridays dur- ing spring and summer, to make sure everyone’s home before dark. Paul McIntyre is no stranger to building community spirit. In addition to The Farm- er’s Pants, he’s the powerhouse behind the monthly Dabbers Dash at Barony Park and the founder of the Nantwich Triathlon Club. Last year, he was honoured with the BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2024 Unsung Hero award for the North West – and it’s easy to see why. To learn more or join the ride, check out The Farmer’s Pants Face- book group. A ride that’s really ‘pants’!