THERE’S never been a better time to get out and about on your bike in Redditch.
Petrol prices are high, pollution and climate change are at the top of the political agenda and if that wasn’t enough cycling’s World Championships are being held in the UK right now.
What’s more it seems everywhere you go in the town the roads are being dug up and diversions are in place, while a cyclist can normally just ride through.
Now comes Cycle September to keep the two-wheeled vibe pedalling with the aim of the month is to get more people riding bikes for leisure purposes, for commuting to work, for popping to the shops or to meet friends.
It’s not about who rides the most miles, it’s about encouraging others to get involved with cycling and its many benefits.
Everyone can do it – from regular cyclists to people who haven’t been on a bike in years (or ever!). It’s never too late to get on your bike.
Even local authorities are getting involved with neighbouring Warwickshire County Council launching its ‘Love to Ride’ programme for September (https://www.lovetoride.net/warwickshire) with up to 700 prizes up for grabs, whether you’re nipping out for a ten-minute pedal and cycling from Lands End to John o’Groats.
“The benefits of active travel, particularly travelling by bike, are huge both for the individual and for our wider environment,” said Councillor Jan Matecki, the county council’s transport portfolio holder.
“For many of us, it might seem difficult, and perhaps daunting, to know where to start as travelling by car, even for short journeys, has become so engrained in our daily lives.
“However, we are committed to supporting residents to realise that they can start their active travel adventure by switching just one car journey every week to an active alternative such as cycling and we hope that our continued partnership with Love to Ride will offer residents a fun and engaging way to get into cycling and encourage their friends, family and colleagues to get on their bikes too.”
