http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eUW3pjvqC-U&feature=related   

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9s-oirjMGsY&feature=related  (200808)

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=q53WM1apdX4    (050808)

CTC Cymru wishes to explore the options for developing cycle access to the Snowdonia National Park through integration with public transport.

If you have a little voluntary time on your hands, and the skills to communicate with other parties, please contact the editor of this website by using the Home Page facility (300708)

As more Labour supporters urge Prime Minister Gordon Brown to get on his bike, so Conservative Leader David Cameron wishes he had his to get on. http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/crime/article4407515.ece   (270708)

CTC Cymru is receiving a steady stream of reports from irate cyclists who have been prevented by local authority beach patrols from using Llandudno's North Shore promenade as an alternative to the traffic congested Parade.

We would appreciate further information on such encounters, particularly if they involve elderly cyclists, families with young children, or companions where one has a mobility scooter and the other is cycling.

If you have information, please use the 'Contact' facility on our Home Page (230708)

Don't delay. Let the Denbighshire Free Press know what you think at http://www.denbighshirefreepress.co.uk/news/Plaid-speed-limit-call-.4303772.jp  (190708)

Swap just one car trip between 30 June-5 July and Change Your World. Walk, cycle, use public transport, or stay home instead. Join in and help reduce car traffic by 10%. For a chance to win great family prizes take your first step now at www.changeyourworld.org.uk  Change Your World is run by Sustrans. To find out more visit www.sustrans.org.uk.  (010708)

National Cycle Route 5 - Pen y Clip cycle/walking bridges underway:

One week in and work has started on the A55 central reservation bridge footings at Llanfairfechan. It's a case of thumbs up all round for the local communities directly benefiting - and cycling and walking in general (010708)

We are seeking a cartoon to promote cycling in Llandudno. This will feature a frightened Victorian lady perched on a stool clutching her gown about her ankles. A puzzled mouse on a bike is peering up at her.

The favoured entry will appear on this website with full acknowledgement of source if requested. We are not a commercial site so regret a fee is not available. Our Home Page contact button should be used for submissions or enquiries. (300608)

Every Sunday, from 7am to 2pm, up to two million residents of Bogotá, Colombia, enjoy over 70 miles of car-free streets. Here's a ten minute film to watch during your lunch break...

If you're inspired, why not get your town or city to register for 2008 Mobility Week. There are 6 events in the UK so far - way behind Austria with 70. For registration see click here . (260608)

On 23rd June 2008 work will start on the construction of cycle/pedestrian bridges on each side of the coastal headland of Pen y Clip. This long awaited work will be welcomed by many. We are urgently seeking information on the arrangements for walking and cycling between Llanfairfechan and Penmaenmawr during the construction period. We will announce these as soon as possible (220608)

Best Wishes to Ian:

After over a decade working on cycle-infrastructure for Denbighshire County Council, Ian Bradfield, Principal Transportation and Environment Engineer for the county, is moving to Welsh Highways. He will be missed by all for his commitment to sustainable transport, and by those who had the benefit of his courtesy and professionalism. His last project was the Afon Clwyd cycleway between Rhuddlan and Rhyl. A fitting tribute indeed. (210608)

How to save £500 a year - even if it does mean driving at 20 mph

The bonus is that slower traffic also encourages more cyclists on to the road. (110608)

29th June 2008: Conwy CBC Cabinet decided to proceed on the next section of this scheme to the RSPB bird reserve. This will involve the use of a pre-existing maintenance tunnel under the Cob and the construction of a rail bridge to join the path on the perimeter of the reserve, next to the river bank. In due course it is hoped to see a link to the village of Glan Conwy provided, as originally envisaged. CTC Cymru has pushed strongly for this - it is now up to the residents of Glan Conwy to make their voices heard. (300508).

And here's how it's done http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n2kvjs6T_bM&NR=1   (200508)

Travelling by bike, and looking for a lightweight camping pitch?

Lynn and Brian will be pleased to see you at Lynn's Nursery, Pant Glas, Gwynedd: it's bang on Lon Eifion at Grid Reference 469472, and barely a dozen miles from Caernarfon. (190508) See also Lon Eifion

Many visitors from abroad, particularly the USA, visit specifically, page 13 of our picture Gallery. Why? What is it about this page that attracts their attention. We would be most interested to know (150508)

We also like Bernie's philosophy on life - 'Don't let your biggest fears stand in the way of your dreams. even if your biggest dreams are your biggest fears' (070508)

In an attempt to circumvent entrenched vested interests opposed to promenade cycling, a working group has suggested allowing cycling on part of the prom, but then diverting cycle routing to a mixture of heavy traffic and back streets - just to avoid using a few hundred yards of promenade that is virtually empty for over 90% of the year.

CTC Cymru has made it clear it does not subscribe to the view that cycling is a threat to promenading pedestrians (there is over twenty miles of adjacent successful coastline shared-use). It insists that either cycling is allowed on the full length of the prom, with cautionary signage where appropriate, or the Highway Authority removes all car parking in front of the hotels in order to provide two-way cycle lanes of adequate width.

This website is aware that many folk do cycle on Llandudno promenade already, and their number is expected to increase substantially as traffic conditions on the highway deteriorate. We would welcome news of cyclists' experiences. (250408)

If you feel you can help present cyclists' case, please contact Richard at dr.richard@keatinge.net  (150408)

:

We have now installed this new and unique archive of over 200 contemporary sketches depicting the effect cycling had on the lives of ordinary people in the 1880s: very entertaining and a must for anyone interested in the social history of the period.

Click here.

Saucers may not fly, but a lot finish up in the sink after Alun Jones and his friends have passed by.

For the latest news and photos http://cafehoppers.fotopic.net/     (130308)

The ceremony to return this very rare cast iron wall plaque to its original location at Astley's Ironmongers, London Road, Corwen, is now scheduled for Saturday noon, 19th April 2008.

After the ceremony, attended by local CTC District Association President, Mike Cross, and other local dignitaries, a 'Wheel to Wheel' cycle ride is planned to Bala, where a similarly rare example of a CTC Winged Wheel is to be seen in the High Street.

For further information on these plaques see http://www.wingedwheels.info/  and http://www.cyclingnorthwales.co.uk/pages/ctc_wing_whls.htm  Any other enquiries to your website editor.   (040308).

Cycling provides some of the best views in the world - but also a close-up of the rear cleft of planners' minds.

Have a peep at this and this    (030308)

Llandudno North Shore Promenade Cycling Ban:

As one wag unkindly put it - 'Folkestone for the continent - Llandudno for the *********** ' (210208)

For details of the 2008 Wild Wales Cycle Ride organised by Merseyside CTC click http://s198483320.websitehome.co.uk/wildwales/wildwaleschallenge.htm

See also our page.   (040208)

Cyclists in Australia have successfully overturned the decision by a rail company to ban bikes from peak time trains. A group of cyclists carrying cardboard models of bikes boarded trains to demonstrate that the ban was unnecessarily harsh – the technique was pioneered in this country by CTC.

For the full story and audio click http://www.abc.net.au/centralvic/stories/s2144501.htm    (030208)

Switch that mobile OFF:

Despite legislation it is still common to see drivers using a mobile phone. Lives are placed at risk when drivers have less than 100% attention to the road ahead. This could happen to someone close to you - http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/england/hampshire/7222690.stm  02/01/08

This year this fun event may be ridden on either 1st or 2nd March, 2008. Click for more details.

CTC Cymru's Welsh Cycling Forum:

Whether a cyclist or not, if you have a view on cycling in Wales, why not cast an  eye on the CTC Cymru Cycling Forum.

You don't have to be a member of CTC - just someone who sees the immense personal benefits of cycling.

You can make new friends, or keep in touch with riding pals of old. You can also get the latest news on the annual Welsh Festival of Cycling. Or you can let us know what you think about Welsh Transport Policy and its obscure strategy on cycling.

Whatever you think, let the forum have your views.  (210108)

 (160108)

Following a Power Point presentation by Dr Neil McKenzie of the Llandudno Safe Cycling Group, the town council agreed in principle to set up a focus group, comprising the main stakeholders, to consider a Safe Cycling Access Route Network (SCARN) for the town. The meeting was advised of the benefits to the town if it acquired a 'Demonstration Town' status.

If YOU wish to make Llandudno safer for cycling, contact gogarth007@yahoo.co.uk    (150108)

In a debate in the House of Lords on the 10th January 2008, Baroness Sharples told of an encounter with a cyclist as she was using a pedestrian crossing. She said she swiped the cyclist with a bag, and asked Road Minister Lord Bassam of Brighton whether she did wrong. He considered she acted correctly. See debate

In a considered response to these remarkably provocative statements in favour of vigilante action that could result in serious injury or death, CTC's Campaign Manager Roger Geffen responded:

“Anti-social behaviour is unacceptable whoever it comes from, and jumping red lights is against the law whether you do it on a bike or in a car. However, given that most cyclists’ injuries are due to drivers crashing into them at junctions, is it any wonder that some cyclists would rather have a brush with the law than put their own safety at risk?” He added: “A Government Minister advocating vigilante action is extremely disturbing and can only increase the levels of violence on our roads. He would doubtless be quick to condemn cyclists who showed the slighted display of aggression towards drivers who cut them up, use mobile phones or break the speed limit. Yet these are the sorts of threats which cyclists’ face every day.”

The history and surviving examples of these remnants of the earlier days of cycling, may be found on a new website at http://www.wingedwheels.info/   See also their history on our own page   (130108)

Opportunities have arisen for individuals to put their name forward to advise on matters relating to Rights Of Way. It is important that cycling has a voice. If you are interested, you may contact Barbara.jones@eryri-npa.gov.uk   , or tele 01766770274. Closing date 25th January 2008.   (130108)

What does it take to bring some newspaper columnists to their senses on road safety? A few months ago the Chief Constable of North Wales, Richard Brunstrom, at a private meeting with the press showed an image of the decapitated head of a motor cyclist killed riding at high speed. He sought to engage those present with the reality of what is a part of the job of traffic police officers, firemen, hospital and mortuary staff - and even clerks in the coroners' and solicitors' offices. But for those present there was a far better story to be had -  finding yet another opportunity to roast Brunstrom himself because he had failed to obtain the consent of the family involved. The national press had a field day and two MPs recently called for Brunstrom's resignation - the purpose for which his original meeting had been convened being completely forgotten.

All this seems to have made little impression on Matthew Parris writing in THE TIMES. He is calling for the decapitation of cyclists by stringing piano wire across country lanes as a novel way of celebrating Yuletide. It is a tune he may live to regret as the world of cycling protests at this man's crass stupidity less than two years after the world mourned the loss of four members of the Rhyl Cycling Club in just the sort of circumstances Brunstrom had in mind when he called his meeting in the first place - motorists driving too fast in prevailing conditions

See Parris's piece at http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/comment/columnists/matthew_parris/article3097464.ece   (010108)

By way of a living tribute to the late Graham Mills, whose contribution to cycling was beyond measure, funds collected in his memory have gone to the Woodland Trust project at Coed Ceunant, Llanbedr Dyfryn Clwyd This is 2 miles east of Ruthin (GR SJ152602).

Mold Section CTC has planned to visit the site on Sunday 30th March 2008, leaving Mold at 9.30am. Everyone is welcome. For those coming from other directions it is expected the group will arrive at their destination at 12.30pm. It is hoped a commemorative seat will be in place, providing a comfortable and peaceful stop when exploring the Vale of Clwyd. Any enquiries to Dave Hill dave.hill2@virgin.net   (25.1207)

'Building for pedestrians and cyclists is not a luxury; it's a commitment of a democratic society....and a demonstration of respect for human dignity' - (Netherlands Government) See Youtube    (241207)

Why not try a Himalaya pootle in the tracks of Brad John Davies    (241207)

After many delays it was expected the construction of the section linking the Deganwy signal box and the Marina would commence late Ocober 2007. However, following approaches by local businesses claiming their Christmas trade would be adversely affected, construction will not now commence until the 14th January 08. The work will also include re-surfacing the concrete block armourflex of the A55 embankment, which , at the moment, makes for a bumpy ride.

CTC Cymru has formally protested at the delay on the basis that yet again no account is being taken of the risks to child cyclists being directed on to the heavily congested adjacent highway.

As yet it is unclear whether the section of the CESG from Conwy Cob to Glan Conwy will be completed in its entirety, or even at all. The position is being monitored closely by CTC Cymru.    (071107)

Just published by the Warrington Cycle Campaign. An expose of the sort of crazy cycle lanes we have to cope with in the UK. .

As a hardback it's a darned good buy at £4.99p All royalties go to CTC's Cyclists Defence Fund

For the price a bottle wine lasting an hour, this'll keep you gurgling for months! To get your copy/s click here

Any proposals to be included on the agenda to be forwarded to doreenlindsey@btinternet.com. by Sunday November 4th. A pleasant evening in the company of folk who love cycling the highways and byways.

CTC Campaigns Manager Roger Geffen said: “Peter Bone’s desire to ‘do his bit’ for safer cycling is no doubt sincere, but seriously misguided. He has blinded himself to the mass of data showing that helmet laws drastically reduce cycle use, and that a cull of cyclists would only make things worse for those who remain. With new evidence just out showing that the obesity crisis is far worse than we had previously realised, Bone's law would almost certainly shorten thousands more lives than it could possibly hope to save.” Read Peter Bone’s speech, and CTC’s stance on helmets. (171007)

It looks as if the long awaited construction of the link between Deganwy rail signal box and the marina is about to start in November. It is expected the work will take about a month each side of Christmas. Bearing in mind there are still cyclists unaware of the route sections already completed, we hope signage will be completed at the same time. (121007)

web manager Maurice back on board!

You will be delighted to know that Maurice Clarke following his discharge from hospital - and one or two computer glitches - is now back in his website manager's chair. He still has some way to go recuperating from his injuries and so is not likely to be riding his bike for a while, but his bubbling enthusiasm for cycling remains undimmed. (190907)

As cycling has an important role to play in helping to reduce vehicle emissions, CTC has been granted funding to raise public awareness of how cycling can help combat climate change. See its promotional video to be shown at all cinemas in the UK.  (010707)

The bad news is a plan by Mostyn Estates and Conwy CBC, to built a multi-storey car park somewhere in the centre of the town. This is based on the discredited notion of 'predicting and providing' for anticipated traffic growth. It is certain to stimulate even greater volumes of traffic in a town already hostile to cycling. So the cycle racks will be there if you manage to get to the pool in one piece.

Has anyone in Conwy CBC ever heard of global warming and the contribution of car emissions? (290607)

Member of Parliament, Emily Thornberry, destroys on the fingers (and thumbs) of two hands, myths surrounding cycling as a congenial part of a busy woman's life. CLICK here.  (180607)

See what the Forestry Commission and CTC has to offer at Coed y Brenin, Dolgellau on the 23rd June 07. Well worth the trip! Click here.  (180607)

      If you want to look a real two wheel smartie for the summer, then contact Margaret Blakeborough (CTC Two Mills Section) without delay.

      Margaret is putting together an order for more tops and is already well on the way to securing the minimum order of 12 garments. For details of what is available (rain jackets, summer tops, winter tops etc.), sizes and price, email Margaret at mrs.b@hotmail.co.uk and include your telephone number so that she can get back to you. Firm orders must be placed by the end of this month (June). (160607)

See the story, and wait for the film of Graeme Obree's remarkable conquering of the One Hour World Cycling record. CLICK HERE. 

Annually based in different parts of the UK, the CTC Birthday Rides attracts hundreds of cyclists for several days. The cancellation has largely been due to the death of Graham Mills who was pivotal to the planning. (040607)

With registration between 10am-11am for a return ride via Lon Eifion to Bryncir (approx 24miles) this event is part of the NSPCC Big Bike Ride weekend. There are hundreds of events taking place around the country, and several in Wales. The organisers are hoping as many people as possible will turn up to cycle as much of the route as they feel able, to help raise funds. People can either raise sponsorship, or make a donation on the day. This is your chance to support NSPCC's DON'T HIDE IT* 2007 Campaign

*Many children and young people who have been abused hide their pain from friends and family. They put on a brave face but they need someone to turn to. The NSPCC's services are there for children and young people to contact when they are ready to talk about their experience and to seek help to overcome the abuse they have suffered. Children and young people can call ChildLine confidentially on 0800 1111 or visit www.donthideit.com to find out more about how to seek help. Call NSPCC Cymru/Wales's free bilingual Child Protection Helpline with any concerns about a child or young person on 0808 100 2524. (290507)

Alun lost his West Clwyd seat by a small majority to Darren Millar (Con) who has yet to prove any understanding of life in the saddle and the need to promote cycling for all manner of reasons.

But it looks as if Darren may be pushing off on the wrong foot. Asked what he thinks about the proposal to issue North Wales police with electric assisted pedal bikes, he is reported to have said, 'I'm not convinced people are asking bobbies to be on bikes - they're asking them to be on the beat'. Has Mr Millar not realised that being on a bike is 'being on the beat'? Cyclists are part of the community like everyone else. Not to be discriminated against and socially excluded.

As any cyclist will tell him, a constable using a bike will intuitively survey far more ground while on the lookout for trouble makers - and also be more readily available to the public at the hailing of a voice - than ever he would be driving a car or plodding the slabs.

Is West Clwyd entering a cycling ice-age reflecting Mr Millar's political apprenticeship in Conwy CBC? We sincerely hope we are wrong. (270507)

Most will be aware of the bitter struggle taking place to link Llandudno to the National Cycle Network. A key feature of this is the planned Conwy Estuary Strategic Cycle Route, linking Llandudno's West Shore to Glan Conwy. Although not yet completed, it has proved its worth many times over despite the ludicrous opposition of a tiny minority in the early stages. 

There is no more important section than the one yet to be started between Conwy Cob and Glan Conwy. This is planned to skirt, and provide access to, the RSPB Nature Reserve. However we hear disturbing reports of a cash shortfall due the unacceptable delays which have taken place, including the costs of a Local Public Inquiry triggered by an individual clearly opposed to cycling. There is a real danger that this section will be guillotined. CTC Cymru reserves its right to take this matter further if this proves to be the case. (240507)

By two votes to one, the Appeal Court has overruled an earlier High Court judgement which had previously found in favour of London's Critical Mass. 

This gives the police greater powers of control - but how effective this will be remains to be seen. Jenny Jones, a Green Party member of the London Assembly, said: "This decision is bad news for everyone. It will end up with the police wasting time arresting innocent cyclists. It will be like arresting a group of passengers for gathering at Westminster tube station during the rush hour." Jenny is urging as many people as possible to join her on the ride this Friday (25th May 2007), which sets off at 6.30 from under Waterloo Bridge, by the National Film Theatre.

Click here for the London Critical Mass website.

And Click here to see how one TV station in the USA explains this worldwide phenomenon.   (240507)

     The proposed revision of the Highway Code says cyclists should "use cycle facilities where provided". If this is approved cyclists will face unprecedented harassment from drivers. They will effectively lose the right to ride on the road where there are alternative cycle route facilities, no matter for how short a distance or how inadequate the design.   (120507)

PLEASE CONTACT YOUR MP IMMEDIATELY emphasising the concerns that cyclists have with the wording of rules 59 (not wearing a helmet or bright enough clothing could be deemed a breach of the Code) and rule 61 (ignoring a "cycle facility" may also be deemed a breach of the Code).

See CTC article and TIMES ONLINE  

and the current 'Number Ten' petition      (100507)

Big Bike Ride Weekend: Have fun and at the same time help the NSPCC  by joining their teams of thousands of people organising and taking part in bike rides over the 

weekend of 29 June - 1 July 2007.

     It's so easy to join the Big Bike Ride wherever you are, whether you're on your own, in a group, at work, in the gym or with family and friends.

     Order your free bike ride organisers' pack which contains a step by step guide, helpful tips and loads of ideas! Ordering your pack is easy and takes just a few minutes: Visit www.nspcc.org.uk/bigbikeride and complete the online registration form or call our registration hotline on 0845 130 3073. 

     You can also visit www.nspcc.org.uk/bigbikeride to find out about bike rides in your area, including Rhyl, Caernarfon (Lon Eifion), Wrexham and Lake Vyrnwy. Make a commitment to join our Big Bike Ride challenge and join thousands of people raising vital funds to support children who so desperately need help. Good luck and enjoy the bike ride!    (100507)

The cycling world in the UK is deeply concerned about a draft change to the Highway Code. This would reduce protection for cyclists using a section of road with a cycle path in the vicinity, even when the use of the road assists the nature and purpose of their journey.

For press comment see TIMES ON LINE

In gathering evidence on this most important issue, CTC wishes to hear about incidents where a cyclist has been injured while using a cycle facility; or has suffered verbal or physical abuse from someone or hassle from the police as a result of using the road rather than a nearby cycle facility. If you've had an unpleasant incident, please email adam.coffman@ctc.org.uk   (080507)

Do you think it's outrageous that the law enables vehicles to be driven at 60 mph on most country lanes in this country? If so, consider signing the following 'Number Ten' petition. http://petitions.pm.gov.uk/countrylanes/ (050507)

Many of us are starting to ask whether ALL our petrol driven journeys are really necessary. What about cycling or walking? With growing doubts about whether western governments have the guts to tackle Global Warming, Sustrans is amongst the growing number of voices raising the alarm. Click for Press Release    (030507)

     The cycling world has for almost a century complained of the way the press trivialises drivers' misconduct on the road. This leads to 45,000 serious injuries or deaths each year in the UK .

     Richard Brunstrom, Chief Constable North Wales, agrees. In aiming to explain why the Arrive Alive scheme is so important for the safety of all road users, he invited the press and media to a private conference. In demonstrating what emergency workers have to face on a daily basis, he showed graphic photographic images of a decapitated motor cyclist. He stressed there were no plans for the pictures to be released to the public, but indicated that the permission of the relatives had not been sought for their use on the day.

     At least one conference member released the story for publication. As a result calls are now being made for Brunstrom to be dismissed. For further details see the report in THE TIMES  and the response from Brunstrom himself.

    The Chief Constable has never been afraid to state publicly his views on the need for everyone to exercise restraint and take greater responsibility for their actions on the road. Will the editor responsible for breaking ground with this circulation boosting story now display the same courage of his/her convictions and go public with an explanation? We await with interest. (300407)

Have a peep at what they do in Budapest. Click into 'Youtube Budapest Critical Mass'. With 50,000 participants its claimed to be the biggest cycling demonstration in the world. There are a number of short video films. Enjoy.

Even if your name is Jeremy Clarkson, you can't fail to be turned on by the exhilaration of cycling in city streets free of motor traffic.

Did someone mention Llandudno North Shore Parade ?   (270407) 

In what has been described as Cardiff's biggest ever cycling protest, Friends of the Earth has taken the lead in challenging the lack of provision for cycle/pedestrian access between Penarth and Cardiff, and its International Sports Village. A video of this tremendously supported event may be viewed here. 

Well done F of E. A sign of things to come elsewhere in Wales? But what of the cycling community out there. What are you doing about your local conditions?    (240407)

A few months ago a very rare cast iron CTC Winged Wheel wall plaque was recovered from a Corwen cellar where it had lain for some years. With the kind permission of its owners, Astley's ironmongers, it has been renovated by CTC Chester & North Wales.

Plans were afoot, with Graham's involvement in the planning, to have a civic re-dedication of the plaque by returning it to its original location on the Astley's shop frontage. It was hoped this could be followed by a ride in memory of Graham. But due to unforeseen circumstances this event is being adjourned. We will advise our readership of the new date when arranged

Not to be missed! The up-to-date edition of this punchy quarterly review of the latest on the cycle campaigning front may now be seen on http://www.ctc.org.uk/DesktopDefault.aspx?TabID=3859. A pdf edition is available as free download.    (270307)

http://www.guardian.co.uk/g2/story/0,,2027972,00.html  (080307)

In helping us all minimize our impact on this unique part of North Wales, the Snowdonia Society has launched its new green website 

A substantial contribution to reducing the impact of motor travel would be made if it were safer and more pleasant to cycle on the roads. This would open up a far more socially inclusive dimension to countryside access, as an alternative to viewing the scenery from the inside of a car.

Illustrated is an example of a specially adapted bus for carrying bikes. It was used in the 1950s to access Dartford Tunnel, Kent. It accommodated 23 bikes in racks and 33 passengers with light luggage. In addition to standard racks there was space provided at the rear for tandems, tricycles etc. CTC believes there is a strong case for promoting bike buses as an alternative to using cars for accessing some of the most popular recreational cycling destinations.

  (020307)

 (010307)

Such an area is the Wirral Peninsula. And such an oasis of peace and tranquility, the village of Port Sunlight, home to Lifebuoy and Lux Toilet soap. Its magnificent Lady Lever Art Gallery has just been polled by the Association of Leading Visitor Attractions (Alva) as having, at 71%, the highest increase in visitors during 2006. 

For anyone thinking of taking a spin around the Wirral, why not check out its cycling webpage?  (240207)

A great deal is being said about the petition opposing Road Pricing. This now has well over 1 million signatures. But as the spokesperson for Transport 2000 asked on a recent TV panel, 'What about the elephant in the corner of the room?' pointing out that transportation accounts for over 22% of carbon emissions, which are the main cause of global warming. And global warming is the greatest threat facing the planet.

Another petition supporting financial mechanisms to reduce traffic has been launched. If you wish to know more of this click here. 

For over fifty years there has been a transport free for all, with no account taken of the full social, economic and environmental consequences. There was a time when we were exhorted to ask ourselves whether our journeys really were necessary. Do we need to return to personal restraint? Click here.     (210207)

There are two North Wales schemes included; (1) Rhyl's Foryd Bridge, and (2) a plan to avoid using the A55 between Conwy Marina's east bound slipway, and Penmaenbach headland. This latter has been a concern for some years - click here. 

The funding will be available under the Lottery's 'Living Landmarks; The People's Millions' scheme.

The winning project will be decided by public vote on television during the winter of 2007/08. For more details Click here. http://www.sustransconnect2.org.uk/

The next step? What about a traffic-free community route linking Rhyl to Ruthin, with the tantalising prospect of linking Bala and Dolgellau Ever heard of Lon Clwyd?

If you are proposing to form a campaign group to raise the issue again, do let us know, we'll be happy to give you a mention on this website (140207)

Cycle Access to Llandudno North Shore:

Exactly one month later (8th Feb 07), there has yet to be an acknowledgement of receipt of the complaint. Some may say, 'not surprising', given that the allegation is one of social exclusion. Watch this space

What about Wales ? We have already questioned on this site whether the right generation is in charge of their future.

With new road building in Wales pressing ahead as if we don't want a future for our grandchildren, (Drome Corner, Queensferry et al), and 'honey pot' planning sending traffic volumes through the roof, the Welsh Assembly must declare without delay how it aims to reduce both traffic and carbon emissions. Which is where cycling can play a crucial role in persuading people out of their cars (60% of journeys are 5 miles or under).

Jeremy Paxman, BBC TV interviewer of true grit fame, accuses the corporation of hypocrisy in regard to its carbon footprint policy. Well known for leaving a footprint about one and half inches wide as he cycles around London on his business, Paxman is one of the latest high profile figures to challenge society's laissez faire approach to carbon emissions. For story CLICK HERE. 

Cycles on Buses:

Cycle Carriage Buses operating on services X32 and X94 are equipped with racks which can carry a maximum of two bikes. The facility is available on a first come, first served basis. Bikes can only be loaded or unloaded at certain points - these loading/ unloading points can be found here . Please, let's hear from you.

Zak Carr pilots a paralympic athlete, John Gribbin, at the National Track Championships

In a statement, CTC Campaign & Policy Manager Roger Geffen said, 'Although this sentence is reasonable within current sentencing guidelines, it is still only a fraction of the maximum sentence available - the reason isn't too hard to spot. Despite the new Road Safety Act 2006 the sentencing framework for bad driving offences is still riddled with inconsistencies. If the driver had done exactly the same thing but by chance Zak Carr had 'merely' been maimed rather than killed, the maximum sentence the judge could have given him would have been just 2 years. So it is hardly surprising that judges never go anywhere near the maximum of 14 years open to them in cases such as this when someone is killed. The government must sort out these anomalies if sentences for dangerous drivers are to reflect the gravity of threatening other road users lives'.

But this inexplicable hostility to cycling remains as true now as it did then. It's institutional and runs through our society. Hard hitting journalist David Banks reminds us of this piece of GBS wisdom in his blog entry for the 12th September 06 

You may not agree with everything David says, but he's smack on target with the ludicrous Llandudno promenade cycle ban.

For the second time running, Conwy CBC's Cabinet committee has 'kicked into touch' cycle access along the North Shore promenade as an alternative to the white knuckle ride between the prom paddling pool and Prince Edward Square. The antique promenade byelaw bans cycling, but seemingly permits every other activity under the sun - including a recently observed 4X4 towing a boat at 20mph.

Make no mistake about it - the battle for Route 5 of the National Cycle Network running along the prom is not over yet. But common sense might prevail even sooner if you wrote to the North Wales Pioneer or North Wales Weekly News. Or let your local councillor know your views in no uncertain terms.

     To keep in touch with his life as a leading supporter of all road users taking responsibility for their behaviour on the road CLICK http://www.north-wales.police.uk/nwp/public/en/blogs/ . Note for anyone who writes to support Richard's comments through the North Wales Police web link: don't forget to mention nearby Pen y Clip, which is arguably even more horrible than the section of NCN to which he refers. A reminder of what that's about may be seen by clicking here. 

No doubt the debate on the value of the cycle helmet will continue to rumble on amongst a largely ill-informed public. For a interestingly balanced view we recommend you have a look at the above site. A case of helmets being more froth than foam ?

Secretary@ChesterAndNorthWalesCTC.org.uk

     In order that cyclists involved in claims for compensation are not intimidated by insurance companies, it is absolutely vital that they have access to good legal advice. All CTC individual members can get free cycling-related legal advise by calling 0870 873 0062.

This item has been copied from the CTC's weekly email Newsnet. It's free to all on-line members. If you would like to receive it direct, simply send your membership number (or post code) and email address to  publicity@ctc.org.uk

     Thanks to Heledd Jones of PTi Cymru for this first attempt at delivering cyclist information. Note – for timetables you go to Timetables page and type in the numbers given – no direct link from Bikes web page … yet.

URL: www.traveline-cymru.org.uk/Bike.htm

Fancy a 'Back to Nature' cycling holiday on the Scottish Borders? At the Albert Watson Memorial Hut (beside A701, 10k south of Broughton) for £3 a night you can stay beside the Quilt Burn near Tweedsmuir with a friendly pub about half-a-mile away. Self-catering, gas cooking, coal heating, basic sanitation, newly-installed running water supply (shared with adjacent cottage) – boil before drinking. Duvets provided, sheet sleeping bags needed. Twelve beds in two rooms, plus small ‘leader's room’, living-room and Scullery.

    There must be at least one adult CTC member in the party.

    Phone Ashley Watt (0131 440 1495) for more details and to book.

    For a Scotland CTC Cycletalk download click www.CTCScotland.org.uk/ctalk/ctalk31.html