Edwardian bike ride promotes safe cycling

The plan was to have a civilised and nostalgic tour of the town followed by a picnic on the green at the De La Warr Pavilion to demonstrate how cycling is part of the traditional life of Bexhill.

The family event was organised by Bexhill Wheelers with the aim of promoting safe cycling on the promenade and raise awareness of this campaign.

However early morning rain and the threat of thunderstorms meant some supporters decided not to take part although the organisers refused to cancel, and were rewarded for their determination by a timely break in the clouds.

Ian Hollidge of Bexhill Wheelers commented: "We were not expecting anybody - if one or two turn up, that's good. Everybody is busy - it is Bank Holiday Monday and there's lots of events on, and it is pouring with rain...everything is against us. So we are doing this to promote the need for awareness of cycling in Bexhill.

"Rother District Council doesn't encourage cycling in a positive way; all they do is say they have a strategy, but in reality it doesn't happen."

He hoped however that the Next Wave project might mean improved facilities for cycling in Bexhill and said: "In the 1930s when the De La Warr Pavilion was built, the roads were not busy. But now everybody wants to drive everywhere and park right outside where they want to be.

"So we have got to go backwards and create safe cycling routes because the roads are so busy, now everyone has a car.

"The roads are so busy they are unsafe for children as well as other cyclists.

"Rother says it wants to make things safer but doesn't do it, or encourage it.

"But we have options to show the councils - Rother, East Sussex and the Department of Transport - the ways we believe pedestrians, cyclists, cars, wheelchair users and mobility scooters can all work together and go on chosen routes safely and responsibly."

The event was also supported by the Bexhill Classic Cycle Group which has been set up to encourage a historical cycling activity group for classic, veteran and vintage cycle owners to get together.

Ray Konyn, accompanied by his wife Patricia, said: "It is interesting just talking to people. The majority of people are responsible cyclists and, as with everything, it is the minority that can sometimes cause problems. So what we are doing today is having a gentle ride around town just to raise awareness.

"Most people we have spoken to are responsible cyclists. They go slowly and are aware of children and dogs on leads, and the elderly."

For further details of the group call Ray on 07711 241891, or email on [email protected].

To contact Ian for information on Bexhill Wheelers, which meets at the Mermaid Bar at 7.30pm on the last Tuesday of each month, call 01424 218993, or email on [email protected].