Biking icons in big launch of new ‘Wheels for All’ initiative
Eileen Powrie with Dame Sarah Storey at Leigh Sports Village
The first cycling network that includes people with disabilities and long-term health conditions has been launched in Greater Manchester.
It was launched at a Wheels for All session at Leigh Sports Village where the charity’s new patron Chris Boardman, National Active Travel Commissioner for England, was joined by Dame Sarah Storey, Active Travel Commissioner for Greater Manchester.
The Greater Manchester Inclusive Cycling Network is made up of 15 partner organisations, including the Wheels for All – the largest provider of inclusive cycling in the country – and Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM).
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The event saw members of the public enjoying the use of non-standard cycles on the sports village’s outdoor track, while volunteers and staff from each of the network partners came together for the first time for training and discussion.
One of the participants, Eileen Powrie, who also volunteers at Wheels for All said: “It puts the joy back in life. People get to 70 and they think their life is over, but it gives you your life back.”
Andria Wright, from Abram, who also took part in the Wheels for All session, added: “They’ve changed my life, it’s given me a purpose. My mental health has improved so much. I’m included now, I’m just like anybody else.” Her husband Neil Wright, added: “She’s 18 again with a sparkle in her eye.”
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Dame Sarah said: “Cycling really can be for everyone and the Greater Manchester Inclusive Cycling Network is a testament to the work being done to enable more people to try the cycle that works for them.
“We know from the recent Cycling UK report that when disabled people are given the opportunity to cycle, the benefits are almost immeasurable, from improved physical health and mental well-being to greater access to places and opportunities, and far less instances of loneliness and social isolation.”
Mr Boardman said: “Cycling has countless mental and physical health benefits and everyone should have the right to participate if they choose, regardless of bank balance or geography.
“I am pleased to be part of the launch of the country’s first inclusive cycling network and I hope this is a model that is replicated nationwide. I’ve witnessed first-hand the impact of making cycling accessible in local communities; it is often the highlight of someone’s week – that’s why the work of Wheels For All and the delivery partners is so vital.”
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