Happy New Year

Yes I know term started days ago - but this morning's cycle to school was so much more uplifting than last week's gloomy, freezing, damp misery. The birds are singing, the sun is appearing earlier every day, and it's not too cold.

Tim Warin, Sustrans

And I happened to bump into new Bike-It Plus officer Tim Warin on his way to assembly at Langbourne Primary. Tim is full of energy, enthusiasm and ideas to persuade more of us to enjoy cycling and walking. His first task while he settles into his role is to introduce himself to local schools, where he says staff and pupils already have some interesting plans for engaging more children and (re)educating local drivers.

Separately, there will be traffic disruptions, road closures and diversions around the area for the next few weeks due to planned repairs and improvements - starting with bridge works and road closures on Croxted Road and Rosendale Road until 26 January. Village Way is also closed due to essential water works. So those who currently drive to school might have to change their habits for the next couple of weeks at least.


All this means that 2014 is officially a good year for you and/or your children to try commuting on foot or by bike if you don't already. It doesn't need to be every day to make a difference.

We'd like to put together some tips and inspiration from children to publish on this website, so please forward us any suggestions, photos and ideas from children and teenagers you know who already bike to school in this area.

Happy Walking and Cycling!