John Bennett, who was a long time cycling campaigner and Push Bikes treasurer, has organised a fundraiser for Acorns children's hospice for his 90th birthday celebratory ride
Birmingham is inviting cyclists to take over its streets on Sunday 11 June!
Bring your friends, bring your family, and join us on a ride to remember – with loads of free entertainment, plenty to see and have a go at, and a totally new way of experiencing your city.
Hopefully we wont have any serious injuries or accidents on Push Bikes ride, but being prepared is sensible. As regular ride leaders, Simon Harrison and John Bennett signed up for a one-day emergency first aid course. How things have changed since my Boy Scouts first aid badge! No slings, fewer on the spot interventions, more summoning help.
For over two years Push Bikes has been leading weekly cycling rides for less confident riders. Calling ourselves Bournville Gentle Cycling we choose to cycle on paths, through parks and on quiet suburban roads, avoiding traffic wherever possible. Over the years we have had over 50 participants and regularly get 20 riders on any day whatever the weather, so we must be satisfying a need. "It's one of the best things I ever joined!", as one participant said.
Cyclers attending the 4th Birmingham Vintage Ride on the 19th July were treated to just perfect weather, being warm enough for the picnic but not too warm for the ride, and with the sun in full attendance too. Of course not everyone has a vintage bike or clothes, but since the objective is a fun, civilised, social gathering, Sunday best was more than good enough as an alternative.
