From humble beginnings, TweedLove has grown into an internationally-recognised festival that all those involved in its development should be very proud of. The spectacular Enduro World Series race, which saw some of the best riders on the planet roll into Peebles, inevitably takes the headlines, but this is a festival that offers something for every age and ability of rider, from pros to tots just starting out on balance bikes.

And it’s that inclusivity, community involvement – the festival couldn’t happen without an army of dedicated volunteers – friendliness and sheer sense of fun that make TweedLove so special.

Ask any of the top riders who came here for the Enduro World Series, and most would agree that the Tweed Valley is a world-class place for biking. But TweedLove is also a celebration of people as well as place – a biking community with a warmth and passion for the area that will be remembered by visitors long after the festival has finished. Many will likely return again and again, and not just during TweedLove.

I have no doubt that the biking community will continue to lend its support to TweedLove, but I sincerely hope that local businesses, accommodation providers and others not directly involved in mountain biking who benefit from the huge influx of visitors also continue to support and recognise the festival for what it is: a wonderful asset for the area and the best possible 'sell’ for the Tweed Valley. We’d be crazy not to get behind it for many years to come.

I am, etc.

Rich Rowe Tweed Valley Tourist Consortium