11 June 2008
SPT supports National Bike Week
We're running a series of events across Strathclyde to encourage participation in National Bike Week, which takes place from 14-22 June.
The aim is to demonstrate the benefits in health, environmental and financial terms to leaving the car at home and giving cycling a go.
This is the second year SPT has taken part in the UK-wide initiative and our staff are also being encouraged to cycle to work, whenever possible.
The events get under way on Saturday, 14 June with The Big Ride, starting at Milngavie Station at 09:00.
Cyclists can join the ride there or at Hillfoot Station at 09:10, followed by Bearsden Station at 09:20 or Westerton Station at 09:30.
The planned route will take cyclists via the canal system and Kelvin Valley Cycle Way to Glasgow’s George Square in time for the SPT Cycling Show.
The first 50 registrations for the Big Ride will receive a free polo shirt but cyclists can just turn up on Saturday to join the ride at any of the departure points en-route.
The SPT-backed 'Try out Cycling' roadshow – starts at 10:00 in George Square.
During this event, members of the public will be able to try out a range of bikes that they could use to travel for work or leisure.
Partnership project
A selection of more unusual bikes will also be available to try and there will be stalls providing information on all aspects of cycling.
The 'Try out Cycling' event is a partnership project involving Glasgow City Council, SPT, Craig McMartin Cycles, Sustrans, Common Wheel, Go Bike and the community policing section.
Throughout the remainder of Bike Week, SPT has teamed up with NHS Ayrshire and Arran, community policing as well as Solid Rock Cycles, Craig McMartin Cycles and Walkers Cycling to hold four Bike Clinics in Strathclyde.
Those attending will be able to take advantage of a bike MOT, provided by cycling experts. A community police officer will be available to give advice on safe cycling and bike security. Information on cycling within the SPT area will also be available, along with free gifts.
SPT’s Bike Clinics will be held at the following places:
- Monday, 16 June – Clydebank Shopping Centre 10:00 –14:00
- Thursday, 17 June – Gartnavel Hospital, Glasgow 10:00 –14:00
- Wednesday, 18 June – Kirkintilloch (near St Mary’s Church and the canal) 10:00 –14:00
- Thursday, 19 June – Crosshouse Hospital, Kilmarnock 10:00 –14:00
SPT’s Sustainable Development Manager, Keri Stewart, said: "We’re delighted to be involved in Bike Week for a second year.
"It’s a great opportunity to promote cycling as a source of fitness and fun, not only within SPT but in other organisations across Strathclyde.
"Encouraging staff to cycle to work, or use public transport rather than drive, has many benefits.
"In particular, we can help reduce traffic congestion and pollution, reduce stress among staff and improve the health and fitness of our workforce."