A POP-up 'Bike Hutch' will launch this weekend, to coincide with this year's Winchester Criterium.

Opening in The Brooks Shopping Centre on Sunday, Bike Hutch will offer concierge bike parking in partnership with the events hosts.

A spokesman said: "We believe cycling should be a natural choice for short journeys. We also believe that convenient secure parking will support that and encourage more people to cycle.

"The aim is to prove the concept before looking to launch at multiple locations around the centre of Winchester in a couple of months."

On the day people will be able to cycle to the Bike Hutch and check their bike into a slot, before going off to enjoy the event. A small charge will be applied when they check their bike out.

As this pop-up will be used to get feedback on the concept, organisers say any money raised will be donated to 6th Winchester Scouts, who will be helping run the Bike Hutch on the day.

As previously reported, the annual festival of cycling will be returning to Winchester city centre bigger than ever before this weekend.

Back for a sixth year, Winchester Criterium and CycleFest will take place on Sunday, with a hosts of activities for both spectators and cyclist across the day.

A family ride will mark the start of the festival at 9.45am in The Broadway. CycleFest will also have new activities and stalls on The Broadway and Abbey Gardens, ranging from Hargroves Cycles ‘roller racing’ to arts and crafts and face painting.