Wheels for All - Bolton, a cycling community project based at Leverhulme Park athletics track, is set to benefit from a new Cycling for All Sportive to be hold on 9th October starting from Smithills Sports Centre, Bolton.
Bolton-based design and marketing firm, Portfolio, has organised the official UK Sportive to raise funds for the volunteer run sessions, which attract over 40 people each week to enjoy the health and social benefits of cycling - whatever their age, ability or fitness levels. High demand over the summer meant that wait times increased, leading organisers to seek ways to offer an addition weekly session.
Supported by the Active Lives Team at Bolton Council, the fun two hourly sessions offer the use of Hand cycles, Wheelchair Tandems, Multi Seat, Recumbents and Tricycles to cater for all needs. No booking is required and sessions cost £4 per person.
The dedicated team of seven trained and DBS checked volunteers are asking for extra 'bike buddies' to join them and make it possible to accommodate more riders from the community.
As beneficiaries of the Sportive, funds raised will be used by Wheels for All - Bolton to buy two wheelchair loading cycles to enable more opportunities for people to get involved.
Sponsorship and new equipment donation is also being sought by the project to increase bike storage and facilities for the volunteers, such as folding chairs, a water cooler, uniforms and a gazebo. Organisations backing Wheels for All - Bolton will have the opportunity to have their branding featured on bikes and on positions around the cycling hub. Primary sponsors will also be invited along to a session to meet the volunteers and see where their donation will be used.
Portfolio founder, Darren Clare, a keen cyclist and triathlete who has raised thousands of pounds for local charities, said: "It's such a brilliant resource for the community and the participants and volunteers deserve new equipment as a reward for their efforts.
"I'll be taking part in the Sportive, alongside other members of the Portfolio team who have helped to build a new website for the project. We are offering three routes - 30 miles, 60 miles and 100 miles - perfect for all abilities and a fantastic day out for novices and seasoned riders.
"We hope this inaugural event raises thousands of much-needed pounds and paves the way for us to put on more Sportives each year to continue raising money for Wheels for All - Bolton."
Ian Davies, Development Officer, Active Lives Team at Bolton Council, said: "These sessions have been held at the park for over fifteen years and post-lockdown they have become even more popular. They give a sense of freedom to so many and we can't thank the volunteers enough."
To get involved with the Sportive, visit https://www.uksportives.com/
To enquire about sponsorship or becoming a volunteer, email ian.davies@bolton.gov.uk