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Mark Colbourne MBE, winner of one gold and two silver medals at the London 2012 Paralympics, and Leon Jones from Ysgol Maes Owen will be the guests of honour.

There was a local schools' competition to suggest a name for the bridge. Leon  won with Pont y Draig (The Dragon Bridge). (041013)

After long delay, this symbolic cycle route linking England and Wales across the Burton Marshes was officially launched on Thursday 18th July 2013.

See the CycleSmiles production of the event at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S5N7CiBQx2c&feature=em-share_video_user

Also our pre- launch webpage at http://www.cyclingnorthwales.co.uk/pages/burton_m.htm 

For additional details of the route see Chester Cycling Campaign at http://www.chestercyclecity.org/?p=859  (270713)

http://www.bikeright.co.uk/services2/instructor_training/ns_it_courses/

See what’s happening in Caernarfon.

Thanks to sponsor Alan Jones of Beics Menai for enabling this to happen (201012)

Cybi Bikes now offer the opportunity of exploring the delights of Holy Island by providing 5 new cycle hubs where bikes can be hired and dropped off together with four recommended routes of varying length. For details click here and here. Elsewhere on this site we have photos of Holy Island.

See how the Guardian reports on this praiseworthy attempt to encourage people out of their cars and on to their bikes http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2012/may/09/wales-gets-tough-green-travel?newsfeed=true  (100512)

Latest news from Sustrans is that this much awaited project to bypass the unpleasant section of the A55 between Penmaennbach and the eastbound Conwy Morfa slip road is now likely to be completed around the 3rd August 2012. This will remove a major obstacle to a much greater use of the North Wales Coastal cycle route by young families and inexperienced riders generally. Work on the ground is expected to start shortly. We will report the first sign of activity. (010512)

There is news for cyclists on the Wirral wishing to use as little as possible of the hazardous Hoylake–Chester high road (A540) on their way to North Wales.

The long awaited Project for the Neston – Deeside Cycleway has received funding. This is to replace the old route, used many years ago, across Burton Marshes to Deeside and RAF Sealand, which was closed down by the MOD several years ago for safety reasons (the old route used to go through the Firing Range).

Sustrans has received £8 million to fund 5 Cycling/Walking projects in the North West. £250K of this is for the Neston to Deeside Cycleway/Walkway.

However, early indications suggest there may be an objection from the RSPB, as the route crosses its reserve. CTC and Chester Cycling Campaign are following this closely. (010512)

The ride has three routes of 15, 50 and 100 miles starting in Hope near Wrexham, with the longer rides taking in some amazing scenery in North East Wales and Cheshire.

 Full details can be found at the Circle of Hope website.

On Thursday, 16^th February 2012, the Conwy Cabinet agreed that desegregated cycle access to the promenade be permitted for a trial period of one year. This followed a unanimous recommendation by a Task and Finish group appointed by the council’s Community Scrutiny Committee. The vote in cabinet was 6-2 in favour of the trial with Cllrs Philip Evans and Graham Rees voting against, as did Cllrs Linda Groom and Ken Stevens in the Scrutiny Committee, which otherwise voted overwhelmingly in favour.

For CTC, Roy Spilsbury commended the decision, and said with the possible exception of one voting against, the others were predictable. He said there were several puzzling aspects which needed closer examination.

To see the Task and Finish group’s unanimous report click here      (220212)

A new initiative to encourage people with disabilities to extend their horizons and have a go at a variety of outdoor exploits. During the launch of the blue graded (moderate) MinorTaur Trail, which has been designed for riders with disabilities, two adapted mountain bikes will be handed over to the project by the Snowdonia National Park Authority. There will be demonstrations of adaptive mountain biking, and the opportunity to have a go on one of the bikes. For further information click here. (081011)

This popular annual event is making a first appearance in Denbighshire between the 26th - 31st July 2012. Camping facilities will be available at Ruthin Rugby Club, and residential accommodation at Llysfasi Agriculture College. CTC Cymru is the organising body. Further details to follow. (081011)

Press Release and photos (060810)

Construction work is now completed on the concrete ramp between the western end of this promenade and the Bangor Road above. The ramp runs under the A55 carriageway and links with the Pen Clip cycle bridge. This provides a continuous cycling route along the coast. Advisory CYCLISTS DISMOUNT signs have been erected on the promenade. These are universally ignored and unnecessary if cyclists exercise elementary care when the promenade is busy. If you are travelling west towards Llanfairfechan and have no wish to visit Penmaenmawr town centre, ignore the promenade signage pointing to the town and continue westerly along the promenade. (210510)

Also, in mid February the first phase of the Penmaenbach - Conwy Morfa route is to be constructed to the east of the Penmaenbach headland. This first phase is only 200m long but it will take users away from the current route that is adjacent to the A55 with no safety barriers. Further phases in the pipeline will take the route over the railway (Phase 2) and through the sand dunes (Phase 3) to the Conwy Morfa car park. (201209)

Walt's sketches include his brother Arthur Dutton. Arthur remained a prominent figure in the cycling world, and was still active in Liverpool until at least the late 1930s.

If your name is either Dutton or Moffat and your early twentieth century family roots are from the West Derby or Everton areas of Liverpool, you may be able to assist us in discovering more about the life of this intriguing artist. If you think you are able to help, do please contact us through the Contact button on the navigation bar above.  (271109)

Barrister Martin Porter, who blogs as The Cycling Lawyer, certainly thinks it is. In a recent post entitled Cycling Against Car Culture, Porter argues that our justice system is biased against cyclists. He draws on his legal experience to compare how the police, prosecutors and courts have dealt with both driving and cycling causing death. It seems that bad cycling is regarded as similarly dangerous as bad driving, though the latter causes many tragic accidents, whereas the number of pedestrians killed by cyclists is in fact only similar to the number killed by golfballs.

If want to report bad driving or if you’ve ever been in a collision with a motor vehicle, you can report it on our Stop SMIDSY website. (271109)

And so this farce rumbles on. A spirited attempt by a young Llandudno Town Councillor to seek a rethink on the prom cycling ban failed last night. Conwy County Cllr Phillip Evans as usual led the opposition, even saying some people thought too much was being spent on cycle paths and that the money would be better spent elsewhere. Clearly he remains convinced he knows what is best for cycling - even though he repeatedly fails to heed its voice.

When will the insider wheeler and dealers grasp that people's journeys are determined by destination - not signposts and painted white lines heading in another direction - such as the proposed route following the perimeter of the town along some of its nastiest roads? As Llandudno businesses head into recession, when will the guesthouses and hotels wake up to being suffocated by parked cars and traffic wardens, and being denied access to the burgeoning cycling market? (251109)

If you want to have your say on the attempts to steer cycling away from what makes Llandudno tick - the Great Orme, the hotels, guest houses, and the Mostyn Street shops, why not have your bleat on http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=logo#/group.php?gid=172879257123 (201109)

Can you ride THE BICKERTON CHALLENGE in support of HELP 4 HEROES? It’s hard. Are you up to it?  Click for details and entry forms.

See how Deganwy Primary School trains the youngsters. (301009)

Llandudno, self-styled Queen of Welsh resorts, has delivered a slap in the face to cycling every bit as foot-stampingly spiteful as Blackadder's Queenie.  Click for press report.

Dismissing advice from cycling bodies who demand safe access along the town's north shore, Conwy CBC is proposing to direct National Cycle Route 5 around the perimeter of the town through some of its most unpleasant and dangerous roads, avoiding shops, hotels, guest houses and the magnificent Great Orme in the process - but, by way of consolation, providing a wonderful view of a breaker's yard.

Anyone with a view on this blatant attempt to exclude cyclists from the heart of Llandudno is urged to write to highways@conwy.gov.uk (291009)

News Flash: The long-awaited cycle bridge at Conwy Cob and the underpass under the flyover and the cycle path to the RSPB reserve were opened on Friday 15th October 2009. See photo of your editor as the first cyclist to cross the bridge. Within the first couple of hours of this unannounced opening there were plenty of people exploring this delightful new route. We are certain it will be popular.

(See description how to approach the new path.)

The Conwy Estuary 'rumble strip' has been re-surfaced and is also now open.

The original bumpy concrete section of the cycle path between Conwy Cob and Deganwy has been given a new surface that is fine for cycling and walking. It was re-opened 9th October 2009. (151009)

There are four CTC Right to Ride rep's in North Wales. They are based in Gwynedd, Ynys Mon, Conwy and Denbighshire. If you are a CTC member and feel you have the knowledge and experience to make a difference, why not make contact here. (070809)

Here are a few hints from the London Cycling Campaign and the Metropolitan Police on how to negotiate space in the presence of high sided lorries http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uPkbNFt5NuY  (070709)

The aim is simply to get to know other cycle campaigners in the region and share ideas etc. Anybody who might be interested in becoming a CTC Right-to-Ride rep in North Wales would be particularly welcome! But really everyone with an interest in promoting cycling in any way is warmly welcome,

Hopefully this will become a regular thing, so if you can't make this one, but would like to know about future meetings, let Neal Hockley know at <n.hockley@bangor.ac.uk> and likewise if you have any queries.

The meetings are open to anyone who is delivering or hoping to deliver National Standards Cycle Training. If you would like more information or are not able to attend this meeting but feel that you would like to contribute please contact Gwenda Owen gwenda.owen@ctc.org.uk  Direct line: 029 20750301 Mobile : 07825081097 Website: www.ctc.org.uk/wales  

Members and friends of CTC will have the opportunity of sharing this special occasion together. But those planning to attend will no doubt appreciate that the route is likely to be crowded, and management is likely to include riders pushing their bikes on foot. We will provide further information as it comes to hand. (210509)

If you are considering a gift for a country loving friend, why not buy a membership of the Society for them? You'll be doing them and yourself a huge favour.

For more of this story, and the Snowdonia Society Newsletter, CLICK http://www.snowdonia-society.org.uk/   (200509)

REPORT THAT HAZARD: If you come across a hazard, such as a pothole, obstruction, or dangerous infrastructure, don't just forget it and risk someone else being injured, click onto the following website and report it officially: http://www.fillthathole.org.uk/report . It's simple. You'll be doing your bit to make the roads and cycle paths safer for all. (160509)

For more about Bob and his cycling family, click here.  (100409)

It is the same everywhere. Lessons aren't being learnt on how to get drivers to be more careful in the presence of pedestrians and cyclists . One method is to reduce speed in selected residential areas to 20mph. Click http://20splentyforus.org.uk/

Why not get your highway authority to adopt 20's Plenty in your neighbourhood? (220409)

See what Chris Juden had to say in THE TIMES, on CTC's new twitter at http://twitter.com/CTC_Cyclists  (60309)

Cardiff 16-19 March,16-17, April and 23-24 April 2009;

Llandudno 24-27 March;

Carmarthenshire 26-27 March and 2-3 April.

If you are interested in applying or would like further information please contact Gwenda Owen, CTC’s Cycle Training Development Officer in Wales or call 029 20750301.  (280209)

The agenda will include the 2009 Welsh Festival of Cycling which is again planned for Rhayader, If you have time to assist with this or aspects of CTC Cymru's work in Wales, do come along to the AGM - you'll find a most cordial welcome amongst friends. As a special bonus for the day, your CTC membership will entitle you to free access to one of the finest collections of cycles and cycling memorabilia in the world.

Please feel free to contact this website if you have a query about any aspect of CTC Cymru's work. (221208)

Flintshire County Council is returning to the Welsh Assembly Government £1.4m that should have been spent on a coastal path between Prestatyn and Connah's Quay. This would have completed a very important link in Route 5 of the National Cycle Network. CTC Cymru will be seeking an explanation and considering a protest. See report in Flintshire Chronicle  (171208)

If you've been as enchanted as us at the antics of Walt and his pals in 1887, here's a fantastic breakthrough on 'Old Billy Slade' and 'Young Slade'. Click here

But this still prompts the question - what stories are out there about the Duttons and the rest of their pals pushing the pedals in 1887? (051208)

'Cyclists and Pedestrians - Campaigning Together - Succeeding Together' ,was the theme of a day well spent by those who attended to hear the latest ideas on people-friendly town and city streets.

If you weren't able to attend yourself, and would like to view the papers click, 'Presentations' at www.streets-ahead.org   (221108 )

Who said cycling isn't cheap? Here's someone who went around the world on a Penny Farthing http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/joff1  (141108)

John Burke speaks on cycling from an American perspective. His message is universal.

Make a pot of tea and nibble at this slice of common sense on a plate http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=OfRiFylmiS0&feature=channel  (131108)

Why is it that some newspapers seem so fond of the term 'controversial'? Readers are quite capable of judging for themselves the merits of a news item - whatever its source. Whatever his views, Brunstrom should be valued for his plain speaking. Mind you, there are cycle paths all over Snowdonia: they're called roads upon which cyclists should be able to travel in safety and comfort. (121108)

http://www.dft.gov.uk/pgr/roads/tpm/ltnotes/ltn208.pdf   (311008)

May the town visionaries now start looking at a cross country cycle link to Rhyl, following the line of the nearby water courses? This would benefit both towns, and Rhyl visitors and residents would have a superbly scenic route to the Prestatyn Morfa, the Dyserth cycle path and the network of country lanes beyond (241008)

Have a peep at this fascinating video illustrating the selective functioning of the mind http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ahg6qcgoay4 . And the controversy following its release by London Transport http://www.bikebiz.com/news/29436/TfLs-viral-ad-is-a-rip-off  But fortunately it seems all's now well between the parties to this copyright spat.   (051008)

The entire Conwy route from Llandudno West Shore to Conwy has been dogged by unbelievable obstacles - largely people-related. It is only due to the determination and vision of some Conwy Borough councillors and officers, proactively supported by CTC Cymru and Sustrans, that this route has progressed.. Although there are still issues to be resolved, such as providing a Safe Route to School from Glan Conwy to Ysbyty Aberconwy, all credit to Glan Conwy Cllr Graham Rees and Cllr Mike Priestley, Conwy cabinet member for the environment, for their fortitude. We agree with an insider's comment - 'It was probably easier to build the Great Wall of China'. (06/088)

David Hembrow, a Briton who now lives in Holland, where he organises cycle tours, has a fascinating blog in which he spells out just how and why Holland has become a vastly more cycle friendly country than the UK.   (290808)

This country inn, overlooking the wide expanse of the Dee estuary, welcomes cyclists, walkers and horse riders. Built about 250 years ago at the crossing of two old coach routes, the Blue Bell Inn has been declared 'Pub of the Year 2008' by the Vale of Clwyd CAMRA Branch. Its website provides for cycling events - and it has a photo of a 'back to back' tandem at http://www.bluebell.uk.eu.org/  (250808)

The decision to order a feasibility study into developing the former 10 mile rail line will be widely welcomed..

It is to be hoped the county is well prepared for opposition from NIMBY groups. The rejection, some years ago, of Denbighshire's 18 mile Lon Clwyd between Rhyl and Ruthin serves as a salutary warning of a commendable initiative brought down by landed self interests.  (250808)

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)

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)

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

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)

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)

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)

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

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)

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)

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)

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

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)

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

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)

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)

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)

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)

Such an area is the Wirral Peninsula. And such an oasis of peace and tranquillity, 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)

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