Cycling UK inspires the Kirkmichael community with two-day event

Designed to encourage people of all ages to get involved, the event offered everything from bike skills training to try-outs on a variety of cycles. It created a buzz that brought families, children, and even hesitant bystanders together in a celebration of cycling.

Day 1: Fun and adventure in Kirkmichael

The first day took place on the astro turf pitch in Kirkmichael, a safe and welcoming environment for people to try cycling. While the morning started slowly, the energy quickly picked up as more children, families, and bikes arrived. Jeremy Young, a local resident, shared:

There was such a buzz about the event, with everyone chatting and having adventures – from toddlers to oldies like myself. Kids on the sidelines gradually changed their minds when they saw what fun everyone was having

Cycling UK’s team of six helpers brought an impressive variety of bikes, ensuring there was something for everyone. From tandems to e-bikes, balance bikes for toddlers, and pedal bikes for all ages, the event provided ample opportunities for participants to get involved—even if they didn’t bring their own bike.

Cycling UK’s Kirsten Gibson set up a skills course with cones, helping attendees weave and train their bike-handling abilities. Meanwhile, a bike mechanic from Cadence Cycles, William, was on hand to repair bikes, adjust saddles, and fix brakes. Many kids rushed home to fetch their bikes for him to repair, and the community’s eight “rescue bikes” stored in a container received evaluations for future use.

The event also sparked new cycling ambitions for local families. One family sought advice for their upcoming cycling holiday in Holland, while many attendees were inspired by the chance to test e-bikes and tandems. 
 

Day 2: Progress and inspiration at Hermitage Park

The second day, held at Hermitage Park, may have faced challenging weather, but the enthusiasm carried over. Several participants from Kirkmichael attended, and one young boy, aged around 11, achieved a major milestone by learning to ride a two-wheeler for the first time. The event’s impact extended beyond just the two days. Jeremy said:

This event has got to come up as one of the tops for our Community Group in Kirkmichael. We’re looking forward to linking up with Cycling UK again soon.

A community transformed by cycling

Cycling UK’s two-day event brought the Kirkmichael and Helensburgh communities together in a shared celebration of cycling. From teaching skills to repairing bikes and inspiring future cycling adventures, the event created lasting memories and reinforced the importance of cycling as a healthy, sustainable, and accessible activity. Jeremy said: 

This initiative will bring great rewards. Cycling UK is doing incredible work to make roads safer and get more people moving. A big thank you to all the Cycling UK helpers and the visionaries who made this possible

The Kirkmichael community is already eager to welcome back Cycling UK and continue building on the momentum created during these two days.