Fri, 15 June 2012
Next week (16-24 June) is Bike Week, and the council is running a range of activities to help residents benefit from two-wheeled travel.
As well as offering advice about cycling in the local area, there will be free bike maintenance sessions, along with BMX displays and the chance to make delicious smoothies using only pedal power at local schools.
Cllr Colin Ellar, deputy leader of the London Borough of Hounslow, said: "Some people might be reluctant to get out on their bikes for a number of reasons. Their bike might have been left unused in the shed for a while, they may not know what bike is best for them, or they might not know the best routes in their area.
"We can help with all of these, and the benefits are well worth it.
"Cycling is a great way to get around the borough, helps keep you healthy, is good for the environment and saves you money."
The week kicks off at the Bedford Park Festival (16-17 June) where there will be a Cycling Zone with Dr Bike offering maintenance advice. On the Saturday there will also be the chance to try out a wide range of bikes, and get advice and guidance from experienced cyclists.
For those unable to make it to the festival, Dr Bike sessions will be running at the Civic Centre on Monday 18 and Friday 22 June from 9am to 1pm.
Schoolchildren across the borough will also be enjoying free interactive BMX displays with top professionals showing off their tricks. Thirty lucky pupils will get 30 minutes of 1-1 coaching to learn basic tricks. There will also be inspirational talks for the children on the 2012 Olympics and how they can all get involved.
Children will also be able to enjoy delicious smoothies made with pedal power when custom built California cruiser Smoothie Bikes visit schools. All pupils get to have a go and receive a healthy smoothie in return.
The council have also teamed up with NHS Hounslow to launch a cycle and walk trainer programme. As part of the programme residents can get their own personal trainer for four weeks. Anyone who signs up will be visited by their trainer, who will offer advice on cycling or walking in their local area and even offer tips on bike maintenance.
Anyone wanting to take part can register at www.hounslowtravelactive.org through the ‘I want a personal trainer’ section, or by calling 020 8583 4980.