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

Two bicycles made for two

Cycling Without Age Hurst & Hassocks

Second trishaw for Cycling Without Age

Earlier this month volunteer-led movement Cycling Without Age Hurst & Hassocks celebrated the arrival of its second trishaw at Proper Cycling & Coffee in Hassocks.

Trishaws are specially adapted power assisted bikes that take two local elderly passengers out for rides to feel the wind in their hair. Rather than sitting alone at home, the trishaw offers elderly people an opportunity to get out in the fresh air, see new things, meet people and have fun. In winter extra blankets and hot water bottles keep people cosy.

The new trishaw has been kindly funded by the Burgess Hill District Lions.

Chapter captain Bridget Hamilton explained: “All Cycling Without Age trishaws, in over 40 countries, are given names. Our first trishaw is called Bunty, after Bunty Parkinson who lived in Hurstpierpoint, and our new trishaw has been named Peter, in memory of Peter Charlton. Peter had been a keen cyclist and, in later years, lived at Villa Adastra where he loved going out for trishaw rides, often with his daughter Claire as pilot and his wife Norma as fellow passenger.

Cycling Without Age locally now has over 30 volunteers trained to ride. They are happy to pick up from home and take people out. Please call Proper Cycling & Coffee on 01273 841 611 to book a ride or email: bridget AT cyclingwithoutage.org.uk.