03/03/2011 - Permalink

People encouraged to get their bikes out of winter hibernation

Related topics: Health / Leisure, culture and heritage

Cycling and walking are great ways to keep fit, get out in the fresh air and explore the beautiful Shropshire countryside.

After a long and very cold winter everyone is looking forward to lighter nights and warmer weather.

Sunday 27 March marks the start of British Summer Time and the launch of a new route, which provides a key link between Coalport and Bridgnorth for walkers, cyclists and horse riders.

This route follows the trackbed of the old Severn Valley Railway and forms part of the long-distance Mercian Way cycle route (National Cycle Route 45) between Salisbury and Chester.

Shropshire Council has been creating this important section for a number of years and has worked closely with landowners to gain permission to use the route, as a lot of it crosses private land.

The opening will be combined with the Severn Hospice Daffodil Ride which will use the route. This ride is open to everyone and money raised from this will to the charity.

Steve Charmley, Shropshire Council’s Cabinet member for culture and leisure, said:

“This new route opens up an extremely attractive part of the county’s countryside and is a welcome extension of the vast National Cycle Route 45. I hope that as well as providing a safe route for walkers and cyclists, it will help boost tourism in the area.

“I’d also like to encourage as many people as possible to try out the new route and join the Severn Hospice on their Daffodil Ride.”

Sarah Hawthorne, Severn Hospice’s fundraising events organiser, added:

“We are so thrilled to be working alongside the Bicycle Hub and to have the support of Shropshire Council and Sustrans in hosting the event. It is a great way to shake off the winter blues and see the first signs of spring as you explore the new route.

“All you need to do to take part in the event is register online at http://www.severnhospice.org.uk/ or contact the appeals department on 01952 221 351 or 01743 354 450. Registration is £5 for adults and kids go free. The event is being held to raise funds for Severn Hospice.”