Posted: 16 June, 2025
We were thrilled to welcome Ed Clancy OBE to our Barnsley Wheels for All Hub this week, where he met participants, volunteers and staff who are helping to break down barriers to cycling and make sport accessible to all.
Ed, a three-time Olympic gold medallist, took the time to chat with participants about their experiences, learn about the life-changing impact of inclusive cycling, and even try out an adapted cycle himself — a significant change from the high-performance bikes of his Olympic days!
“Great visit to Wheels for All in Barnsley today,” said Ed on his social media. “It was a real privilege to spend time meeting some inspirational people who are overcoming their own doubts and insecurities to enjoy the wonders of wheels.
Had so many fantastic conversations about behaviour change, accessibility, and how we can make programmes more inclusive and welcoming. Thanks so much for having me along today – loved it.”
The visit was also an opportunity for Ed to meet the team behind the Hub, including representatives from Barnsley Premier Leisure, and members of the Wheels for All team.
“It was an absolute pleasure to welcome Ed to Barnsley,” Ian Tierney, CEO of Wheels for All. “His warmth and genuine curiosity about inclusive cycling made a lasting impression on everyone here. The conversations we had about behaviour change, confidence building and collaboration were inspiring — and will help drive forward our shared mission.”
Yvonne Stead, Regional Manager for Greater Manchester and Yorkshire, added:
“We’re so proud of the work happening at our Barnsley Hub, and it was wonderful to see Ed engaging so thoughtfully with our participants and partners. His reflections show that inclusion and wellbeing through cycling are powerful tools - no matter where you sit on the sporting spectrum.”
A huge thank you to Ed for taking the time to visit, and to Barnsley Premier Leisure for facilitating the day. We look forward to continuing this collaboration and spreading the message of inclusive cycling even further across the region and beyond.
