Inclusive cycling event brings joy and confidence to riders at Tameside Cycle Circuit

Residents of all ages and abilities were given the chance to enjoy the freedom of cycling during a special accessible session at the Tameside Cycle Circuit on Thursday 6 November.

Greater Manchester’s Active Travel Commissioner, Dame Sarah Storey, visited the facility for the inclusive event, hosted by Active Tameside, following earlier conversations about improving access to cycling and promoting physical activity for all, regardless of age or mobility.

Dame Sarah was welcomed by Tameside Council Leader Cllr Eleanor Wills and Executive Member for Towns, Transport and Connectivity Cllr Stephen Homer, alongside representatives from Active Tameside and council officers. The session opened with a briefing from Sharon Walls of Active Tameside, who outlined how adapted cycles are helping more people enjoy the benefits of cycling.

Cllr Wills, attending the session as a first-time rider herself, was given the opportunity to learn more about the range of adapted cycles available, designed to open up cycling to people with mobility needs, disabilities, or health conditions.

The group then joined participants from Gabriel’s Guys and the Everybody Can Adult Day Service, many of whom were trying cycling for the first time. A variety of standard and adapted bikes were available, offering a friendly and supportive environment where everyone could ride at their own pace.

Cllr Wills spent time with Dame Sarah meeting riders and hearing their stories about how cycling is helping them build confidence, independence and wellbeing.

Cllr Eleanor Wills, Leader of Tameside Council, said: “This session was a brilliant example of how we can break down barriers and make cycling something that everyone can enjoy. It was fantastic to see first-time riders gaining confidence and having fun. We’re proud to work with partners like Active Tameside to support inclusive opportunities that improve health and wellbeing across our communities."

Dame Sarah Storey, Greater Manchester’s Active Travel Commissioner, added: “It’s always inspiring to see how inclusive cycling sessions like this can open up new possibilities for people who may not have considered cycling before. Whether it’s for fun, fitness or independence, there’s a cycle for everyone - and groups like this one show how important it is to make cycling accessible to everyone. In addition, it provides even more motivation to build the Bee Network Cycling routes so that they can be used by as many different types of cycles as possible. Cycling short journeys or as part of a longer journey using public transport is something we need to make possible for everyone, not just those riding standard cycles."

Tameside Cycle Circuit is one of ten locations across Greater Manchester that form the new GM Inclusive Cycling Network. The network aims to give people with mobility needs or health conditions the chance to try a variety of adapted cycles in safe, supportive, and enjoyable settings.

To find your nearest Accessible Cycling location, visit wheelsforall.org.uk/locations.