Around Ealing Summer 2019 | Page 6

UP FRONT Summer of cycling love Hanwell Zoo ups the ante The council’s family- friendly Summer of Cycling is a programme of events with something for everyone. Hanwell Zoo is welcoming 10,000 new additions this summer with the arrival of a leaf cutter ant colony. These incredible animals have one of the most complex societies in the animal world with an array of roles – from the all-important queen to the industrious leaf cutters and protective soldier ants. A cycle ‘library’ will run on certain days in June, allowing families to borrow child seats and trailers. Various events will take place in Bike Week between 8-16 June. In July there will be two Ticket to Ride cycling festivals held in local parks – with regular, guided bike routes to enjoy between 10am-3pm. The first is on 7 July at Northala Fields; and the second is on 14 July at Pitshanger Park. Then, a pedal-powered cinema will bring an outdoor screening of The Greatest Showman (PG) run entirely on pedal power on 23 August at Lammas Park (Northfield Avenue entrance). Tickets will be released in June. Doors will open at 7pm, with the screening at 8.40pm. Keep an eye on www.facebook.com/ealingwow for updates. Skate Park opens Acton Skate Park is quickly turning into a favourite spot for skaters and BMX-ers following its official opening in April. The council has worked closely with the Ealing Skate Association and the local skating community to create a safe and high quality skatepark complete with bowls and a plaza area – ideal for skaters from beginners to experts, from those participating, to those who just want to watch the action. Acton is the second skate park to open in the borough – with the other next to Gurnell Leisure Centre. Read more at ealingnewsextra.gov.uk/ features/acton-skatepark 6 around ealing    Summer 2019 Visitors to the zoo will be able to see the ants carry up to 50 times their own weight as they harvest leaves each day. There is always so much to do and see at the zoo, with more than 50 species including the ever-entertaining meerkats, tamarin monkeys, porcupines, and a family of ring-tailed lemurs. For more information about Hanwell Zoo, including a great opportunity to help brighten up the zoo this summer by creating your own artwork, visit ealingnewsextra.co.uk/ features/hanwell-zoo-summer