Get pedalling this September in Durham

Residents in County Durham are being encouraged to get on their bikes this September.

Durham County Council is inviting schools, workplaces, community groups and individuals to take part in Cycle September, a free month-long cycling challenge designed to make biking accessible and enjoyable for all ages and abilities.

The programme features a series of events, including family and adult guided rides, bike maintenance workshops, Women on Wheels sessions, Dr Bike services and the Durham Cycle Forum. 

Highlights include rides at Crook Hall on 14 and 15 September, as well as sessions at Recyke Y’Bike, in Chester-le-Street, on 17 and 24 September.

Residents can sign up to the challenge at www.lovetoride.net.

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.”

Residents can also enter a photography competition by capturing the county on a bike or walk, with a £100 Halfords voucher up for grabs.

Additional initiatives support cycling beyond the challenge. 

The Borrow a Bike Scheme offers free bike hire for up to three months to help people commute, while the ParkThatBike programme provides free cycle parking for local businesses and organisations.

For more information, visit www.durham.gov.uk/borrowabike and www.parkthatbike.info.

To enter the photography competition, email your entries to durhamcountynews@durham.gov.uk by Tuesday, September 30. Make sure you include your name, hometown, description of the image and where the photograph was taken.

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