Kidical Mass returns to Hassocks

By Andy Hansen, of Greener Hassocks & Ditchling

Following on from the success of the first Kidical Mass family bike ride last summer, we keep on being asked when it’s coming back…

Well, the answer is soon: 5th July to be precise. Riders will gather at 1.30pm in Adastra Park, in the area next to the small car park, north of the bowling green and playground. We will depart at 2pm prompt for a short Tour de Hassocks: three to four miles with marshalls, flags and lots of fun. There are no big climbs. Based on last year, our average speed will be around three to four miles per hour, which is a brisk walking pace.

The ride is aimed at all ages. Children under 16 need to be accompanied by an adult. The route will be risk assessed, and marshalls will repeat last year’s training and test ride of the route. More details coming soon on posters around the village and on the Greener Hassocks and Ditchling website and newsletter. Find out more at www.greenerhassocksditchling.org.uk - see you there!

A summer of cycling in Hassocks

By Andy Hansen, Greener Hassocks and Ditchling

A ‘summer of cycling’ is being organised by Greener Hassocks and Ditchling. So far, we have organised a launch event with great speakers; a women’s ride; a 40-mile social ride and free bike checks. Most recently, we organised a wonderful Play Street event in which a residential road was closed for a couple of hours so that children could play out safely. We’d like to thank all those who took part and we hope you enjoyed yourselves.

There’s still time to sign up for upcoming events. You could book a free bike check, courtesy of Dr Bike, who will be at Proper Cycling and Coffee on Tuesday 1st July, from 5.30pm to 7.30pm. If you have an old bike that needs a bit of TLC, or want to check that your children’s bikes, pop down to Proper and Dr Bike will give them the once over. Stay on for the briefing and Q&A session to find out more about the Kidical Mass bike route, and how you and your family can have a great time on the day.

Due to popular demand, Dr Bike will also be at the St Lawrence Show in Hurstpierpoint on 5th July. No need to book! Just turn up with your bike and Dr Bike will be happy to check them over for you.

Kidical Mass is a large, fun ride for parents and children on Saturday 12th July from 2-4pm. We will have stewards riding with you, making sure everyone stays safe. The good folk from Cycling Without Age will be riding their trishaws with us, making this a truly multigenerational event. The route is short, level, and we have checked it out several times. It should be a lot of fun, as well as a demonstration of the interest in cycling in Hassocks, and a lobby for better and safer cycling facilities.

Register for the Kidical Mass ride or book your session with Dr Bike via Greener Hassocks and Ditchling: www.greenerhassocksditchling.org.uk/onyourbike