7th June 2009

A day for Dusty Bikers

The Blackwater Valley was the
venue for a ‘Dusty Bike’ ride on Sunday 7th June which attracted families and individuals alike. The event is designed for people who have a bike in their garage or shed but never get it out – hence the name – and many of the participants had done just that, although regular cyclists and cycling enthusiasts came along as well. Altogether the event attracted a mixed age group of 24, from 2 years to 70+.

“The Blackwater Valley area is a wonderful amenity for local people,” said Christine Reeves of the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership, “and our Dusty Bike Ride is designed to introduce it to people who possibly haven’t discovered it for themselves.”

Despite an early puncture, which delayed the entire group, and a few showers of rain en route, the Dusty Bikers enjoyed their ride. To add to the occasion the Blackwater Valley team provided  a refreshment stop just over half-way round near Coleford Bridge, which was appreciated by all concerned.

This is the second year running the event, which was organised by the Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership and CTC Farnborough, was held.  Starting at Lakeside Nature Reserve in Ash, the ride covered 8½ miles and  followed the Basingstoke Canal from the aqueduct at Ash Wharf north to Frimley Green, where there was some road cycling before picking up the Blackwater Valley Path at Frimley Hatches and then heading south to complete the circular route. 

“The path is extremely close to the urban areas of Aldershot, Farnborough, Frimley and Camberley,” commented Christine, “ yet it gives users the chance to get up close to nature and see all kinds of wildlife including Grey Herons and Roe Deer. Today’s ride  followed a stretch of the path which has a multi-user surface making it ideal for bikes, buggies and pushchairs.”

Anyone interested in finding out more about the Blackwater Valley Path can buy a booklet for £2.50 plus 50p p+p from the Blackwater Valley Countryside, Ash Lock Cottage, Government Road, Aldershot GU11 2PS. For more details ring 01252 331353 or visit www.blackwater-valley.org.uk

Anyone interested in finding out about more organised cycle rides in the area should visit www.nhampshirectc.org.uk

END

For more information contact:
Christine Reeves, Visitor Promotions Officer on 01252 331353.
BVCP, Ash Lock Cottage, Government Road, Aldershot GU11 2PS.

EDITOR NOTES

• The Blackwater Valley Countryside Partnership (BVCP) is funded by the County, District and Parish Councils along the River Blackwater. It works to promote community action in conservation and recreation and to protect the Valley for the enjoyment and well being of the whole community.
   
• CTC Farnborough is part of CTC North Hampshire. They organise rides and other events to suit all abilities of cyclist, both on and off road. Visitors and non-members are welcome – it costs nothing to join the majority of our rides but regular riders are expected to be members of the CTC. For more details visit their website  www.nhampshirectc.org.uk