With the good news that Manx Utilities will be opening the Ballagarey section of the Heritage Trail over Christmas, Team RL360 can confirm that the club’s popular Family Fun Ride on the trail will be going ahead on Wednesday, December 27.

The event will start from the Quarter Bridge end of the trail at 10am and follow the disused railway track to Crosby Playing Fields, where refreshments (bacon baps etc) will be served in the Millennium Hall.

Names and the entry fee of £2 (to cover insurance costs) should be sent to Dot Tilbury at 1 Ballaquinnea Cottages, Glen Vine, IM4 2AS (tel. 480636).

l What is believed to be the 50th annual Christmas social ride for cyclists takes place next Wednesday, December 20.

Douglas ’butties’ will meet at Railway Inn, Union Mills between 6.30 and 7pm, arriving at the Baltic Inn, Foxdale from 7.45 onwards. Hog roast and carol service. All welcome, good lights and reflective clothing essential.

l The Fellowship of Manx Veteran Cyclists is holding its annual Christmas carvery buffet lunch at the Palace Hotel, Douglas today, Thursday, starting 12.30 for 1pm.

Annual subscriptions are also due (£5), payable to FMVC, to Sarah Berry, 14 Olaf’s Close, Governor’s Hill, Douglas.s

l This year’s Bikestyle handicap road race is scheduled to take place on Sunday, December 31 (New Year’s Eve). More details when available.