Golden medal hauls in cycling at the Commonwealth Games helped inspire a spike in trade at an outdoor activity shop.

Sales of cycling goods rose by 76% in the first three weeks of the summer holidays at GO Outdoors Canterbury.

People in the city bought more than 500 bicycles and 600 helmets over the period at the Maynard Road store, which opened in May.

Soaring temperatures also meant sales of camping goods were boosted by 73%, with sleeping bags up by the same figure.

Climbing goods also saw a 71% increase in sales as holidaymakers made the most of one of the hottest summers in the last century.

GO Outdoors chief executive Chris Matthews said: “The GO Outdoors mission is to create a specialist outdoor retail business that is a one stop shop for outdoors enthusiasts and beginners alike in an unintimidating, helpful, knowledgeable environment.

“Kent is rife with amazing places to explore and we are delighted to help the people of Canterbury experience the great outdoors...” - Go Outdoors' Chris Matthews

“Kent is rife with amazing places to explore and we are delighted to help the people of Canterbury experience the great outdoors.”

Canterbury’s general manager Faron Cross said: “We have been delighted by the reception we have received from the local community.

“We have seen a real demand for the store and as the team live and breathe outdoor adventures, our shoppers really do get genuine expertise whether it’s their first time trying a hobby, or they’re weathered professionals looking for new gear.

“It’s not too late to come down to the store and get kitted out with everything you need to make the most of the final few weeks of the summer.”

The 30,000sqft Canterbury store has welcomed nearly 73,000 customers since opening and is the 48th opened by the company across the country.