A couple who got engaged at the finish line of last year’s Prudential RideLondon are helping inspire first dates, couples and friends to ride together as part of the world’s greatest festival of cycling.

Rachel Ryves and James Dewar-Haggart headed to Paternoster Square near St Paul’s to launch the 2017 Prudential RideLondon FreeCycle, which takes place on Saturday, July 29.

FreeCycle sees eight miles of central London roads given over to cyclists and has seven festival zones where people can stop and enjoy bike-based activities.

And with the launching taking place at the home of hit television show First Datesit was only right for Rachel and James to help present Wheel Love – encouraging friends and couples alike to take to the streets of the capital.

“I was coming down the Mall and I heard someone shouting out with a banner saying, ‘Rachel, will you marry me?’ and I cycled straight past thinking it was for someone else,” explained PhD student Rachel.

“We eventually got through to me and asked if I’d seen it and then wanted my answer, I asked him if he was sure and then we met at the barriers where we went down on one knee, and I obviously said yes.

“The Prudential RideLondon experience was amazing and the two of us will definitely be back again this year, it’s nice to have someone to go around with because without them I hit the wall within the first two or three miles.

“In the FreeCycle you get to ride the streets of London without traffic, and if you’re not a confident rider then that’s perfect. It gives you a completely different perspective of the capital.”

Signing up for FreeCycle is free, designed for beginners and experienced riders alike, whether on your own or alongside someone special.

And for James, 34, who took the plunge and got done on one knee in front of thousands of onlookers, cycling is something he had never even expected to take part in prior to meeting his fiancé.

“When Rachel and I got together she was training for a 50-mile race in the New Forest, and I’m a personal trainer so I do a lot of exercise anyway," he said.

“I used to run but was never keen on doing cycling, but ever since the first ride we did together I game up on running and got into cycling.

“We only cycle together, something we can do exclusively together. FreeCycle is a brilliant thing to do together, what better way to get around London and see the sights than with someone special.

“It’s a lot more fun and a lot safer to ride together too, so I’d recommend everyone to get involved.”

Prudential RideLondon is the world’s greatest festival of cycling and takes place in London between Friday 28 July and Sunday 30 July. For more information, visit www.prudentialridelondon.co.uk