Local kids get into a wheely good habit

Lambeth youngsters are leading the way in sustainable living following the launch of a children’s bike club. The council-run project aims to promote a healthy approach to life and the environment among the borough’s younger citizens.

A fun day was held recently to mark the launch of the bike club. Young residents from the Oaklands estate and Poynders Garden estate, Clapham Common, worked with British Cycling (Go Ride) to hone their cycling skills. Some of the bike club members will also be given free cycles by the council, free bike storage, and some training in cycle maintenance and road safety awareness to complete their cycling abilities, knowledge and experience.

The club consists of 16 boys and girls who are interested in using their bikes to cycle to school, and as a means to enjoy shared fun days out. The council has offered to help shape the first excursions until the club is more established. Exciting day trips to the BMX track in Brockwell Park and Herne Hill’s velodrome have already been highlighted as possible venues for the first collective rides.

Cllr. Nigel Haselden, deputy cabinet member for sustainability said: “The young members of the bike club are setting us all a good example by quite literally getting on their bikes, rather than contributing to the pollution generated by the daily ‘school run’ of cars.

“I hope many other people, young and old, are inspired by them to change small things in their own daily routines in order to live a more sustainable and active life”.