From guided rides to prize giveaways, people across County Durham are being encouraged to hop on their bikes this September.
Durham County Council is calling on residents, schools, workplaces and community groups to take part in Cycle September – a free, month-long cycling challenge.
Dave Lewin, Durham County Council’s strategic traffic manager, said:
“Cycle September is all about helping more people discover the joy of riding – whether it’s to work, the shops or simply for fun. It’s open to everyone, regardless of their experience or fitness level.
“Cycling is not only an easy and fun way to stay active. It’s a great opportunity to explore the county and enjoy the variety of landscapes it has to offer, from coast and countryside to towns and villages. We’re supporting Cycle September and have a number of activities organised to make cycling more accessible and enjoyable for our residents.”
Cycling events
As part of Cycle September, the council is hosting a series of free events and initiatives designed to make cycling more accessible and enjoyable for residents of all ages and abilities.
Cycle September events taking place in County Durham include:
- Sunday 14 September, 10am to 12pm, Crook Hall, Durham – Family guided ride and bike maintenance workshop
- Monday 15 September, 6pm to 7.30pm, Crook Hall, Durham – Adult guided ride and bike maintenance workshop
- Wednesday 17 September, 5.30pm to 7pm, Reycke Y-bike, Chester-le-Street – Women on Wheels basic bike maintenance
- Wednesday 17 September, 5.30pm, County Hall, Durham – Durham Cycle Forum
- Wednesday 24 September, 11am to 2pm, Recyke Y’Bike, Chester-le-Street – Dr Bike service
Photography competition
This September, residents can also be in with the chance of winning a £100 Halfords voucher by taking photographs of County Durham during a bike ride or a walk, whether that is on their daily commute, family bike ride, or hike through the countryside.
Photographs can be emailed to [email protected] by Tuesday 30 September to be entered into the competition. Entries must have the person’s name, hometown, description of the image and where it was taken.
Borrow a Bike Scheme
The council’s Borrow a Bike Scheme is a free bike hire scheme to help people get to work, save money and keep healthy.
People who live or work in certain areas of the county can borrow a bike for up to three months to help them commute to work.
Areas where the scheme operates are: Shildon, Newton Hall, Framwellgate Moor, Brasside, Pity Me, Stanley, Murton, Seaham, Newton Aycliffe, Chester-le-Street, Bishop Auckland and Meadowfield.
For more information, visit www.durham.gov.uk/borrowabike
ParkThatBike Scheme
Organisations and businesses such as shops, cafes, offices, churches, dental practices and surgeries can apply for free cycle parking through the ParkThatBike scheme.
As part of the scheme, organisations can receive a free bike stand or secure bike store to install on their premises.
More information can be found at www.parkthatbike.info
Love to Ride
Cycle September is run by Love to Ride. For the 30 days of September, residents can use Love to Ride’s online platform to log their bike rides, track their progress and connect with other people.
Anyone who logs a ride will also be able to win prizes from Love to Ride, including holiday vouchers or cash.
Residents can sign up to the challenge at www.lovetoride.net
