Second cycle to work challenge a success

Participants in the second Denbighshire County Council Cycle to Work Challenge have been talking about their experiences.

Rhyl and Prestatyn residents were asked to leave their cars at home and cycle to work for a six week period which finished on August 7.

Participants covered at least 1,460 miles, burned in excess of 44,000 calories and saved over 292kg of carbon emissions, according to the event organisers, Cycle Experience.

Rajeev Metri, a staff nurse in the Cardiac Cath Lab at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd, tackled a daily three-mile commute. He said: “I was motivated to try the challenge for the benefit of the environment as well as my own health and fitness. I lost three kgs in weight during the challenge and hope to continue to leave my car at home from now on.”

Dave Williams travelled from Kinmel Bay to the outskirts of Rhyl, getting back on his bike after a break from the two-wheeled commute. With the help of a new bike, he's been inspired so much he's getting his kids into the habit too.

Russell Jones of Rhyl commuted in all weathers and said: “I’ve saved lots of money, feel healthier and have taken the family out biking since starting the challenge."

Mair Bissell had a couple of trial cycles before traffic defeated her. However, she said: “It has got me back into the cycling habit, though, and I have been out on the many local bike paths. I’m enjoying it so much, I have treated myself to a new bike!”

Denbighshire County Council continues to support challenges such as these to raise awareness of the county's many cycle paths and to encourage a fit and active lifestyle.

For more information, mail alan.hinchcliffe@denbighshire.gov.uk or call 01824 706887.