Cyclist hopes to get families on their bikes

Buy photos » Steve Bullen. (s)

A CYCLING enthusiast is planning to build on the huge success of London 2012 by getting families on their bikes in his home village.

Steve Bullen from Honeybourne wants parents and their children, inspired by this summer's Olympic Games, to take an interest in cycling which he then hopes will help to get people fit, build community spirit and maybe even find the next Bradley Wiggins.

And Mr Bullen's plan of action starts tomorrow (Saturday) when he hosts a short off-road cycling event in the village suitable for all ages and capabilities starting from 2pm at the Badham Motors garage forecourt.

Then in a fortnight's time on Saturday December 1, Honeybourne will host its first on-road family fitness event where people can either cycle, walk or jog together on a designated route around the village starting at the village hall at 10am. It is then hoped these events will be held throughout the year.

Mr Bullen is also campaigning for local lanes including Gloster Ades Road and Stoneford Lane to be designated Quiet Lanes so people can feel comfortable using the narrow lines for cycling, jogging and walking.

The campaign has received backing by both Honeybourne and Bretforton Parish Councils and is now subject to approval from Worcestershire County Council's Highways department.

And Mr Bullen told the Observer he hopes these new family events will be held regularly in the village as Honeybourne goes in search for the next Bradley Wiggins, Victoria Pendleton and Chris Hoy's.

"The idea to set up this community imitative all started with Bradley Wiggins winning the Tour De France and gold in the Olympics and I felt we needed to do something more in this country for cycling in terms of its grass roots," he said.

"Aside from that I've organised walks in Honeybourne which have gone done very well with the residents and visitors and I want to do replicate that for cycling.

"But the problem you have when you talk to people about cycling especially parents with younger children is they say its dangerous.

"I'm a cyclist and what I want to do is create a safe environment so young people and families can cycle with confidence and enjoyment.

"By encouraging families to enjoy cycling, walking and jogging in and around the village, I expect to reinforce our community spirit and hopefully identify young talent that can be nurtured in sport and fed through to local sporting clubs."

For more information about the events Mr Bullen is organising e-mail him on steve@stephenbullen.com.

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