Cycling drum and bass party has police-imposed route

An event which sees music fans cycling through Bournemouth has been ordered to take a specific route, following police concerns.

The Drum and Base on the Bike event, planned for Sunday afternoon, is led by DJ Dom Whiting, famous for performing on a bicycle modified with speakers and decks.

Dorset Police said it had imposed a specific route on the event to "minimise disruption" for local residents.

BCP Council said it was still expected to cause some disruption and warned road users to allow extra time for their journeys.

Mr Whiting originally began DJing on his bike during the Covid pandemic lockdowns and quickly gained a social media following for his attention-grabbing rides.

He has already ridden through many UK towns as well as playing in Germany, Australia and Switzerland.

Speaking at the event in Bournemouth last year, which attracted hundreds of fans, he said the communal rides "bring people together".

Ch Insp Darren Harris said a route had been imposed under the Public Order Act following feedback from residents after previous events.

It takes riders from Kings Park Drive, along Littledown Avenue, Harewood Avenue, Christchurch Road, Seabourne Road, Southbourne Overcliff Drive, Southbourne Coast Road and Dalmeny Road.

They then travel along the seafront before finishing near to Boscombe Pier.

Ch Insp Harris said: "Our role is to ensure the safety of all those who wish to enjoy public events in the area and all that Bournemouth has to offer.

"The decision taken to use these powers was done so in order to keep disruption to a minimum at a time when we are expecting a large number of visitors coming into the town, ensuring we are doing all we can to keep people safe."

"It is vital for us to ensure those attending this event, as well as other events happening in the area and those living and visiting the town at the busiest time of the year, can all have a safe and enjoyable weekend and that any disruption is kept to a minimum."

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