Reflections on We Ride Together North!

Just over a week ago, our We Ride Together North team crossed the finish line on the Millennium Bridge into Newcastle after an unforgettable 121-mile journey from Kendal, raising funds and awareness for inclusive cycling along the way.

Over three days, Wheels for All Chair Paul Alcock, Chief Partnerships Officer Ian Tierney and friend of the charity Nick Green cycled from Kendal to Newcastle, travelling through communities across the North of England and demonstrating that cycling should be something everyone can enjoy, regardless of ability.

While the challenge tested the riders physically, it also sparked countless conversations with supporters, volunteers, participants and members of the public about why inclusive cycling matters and why everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the joy and independence that cycling can bring.
There was an amazing send off from Kendal with participants and volunteers joining he first section of the ride, and the ride begin with a great cheers form partners including GLL, Kendal Cycle Club, Westmoreland and Furness council, Wheelbase and C-AMS.

It was great to be welcomed by partners on the route including GLL at Penrith Lesiute Centre (Soon to be base for Penrith Wheels for All), Places Leisure at Hexham Leisure Cnetre and by RISE, the Active Partnership for the North East at the finish on the Millenium Bridge.

The end point was next to the Baltic Centre for the Arts, which is quite fitting as this will be the location for the first ever inclusive cycling conference in the North East on 9th September

We Ride Together North was about far more than covering the miles. The challenge aimed to shine a spotlight on the barriers that still prevent many disabled people and those with long-term health conditions from accessing cycling. Across the country, demand for inclusive cycling continues to grow, but access to adapted cycles, accessible venues and trained volunteers remains limited in many areas.

Funds raised through the challenge will help Wheels for All continue to grow opportunities across the UK by supporting inclusive cycling sessions, maintaining and investing in adapted cycles, training volunteers and ensuring more people can discover the physical, mental and social benefits of cycling.

For Wheels for All Chair of Trustees, Paul Alcock, the ride reinforced exactly why the charity’s work is so important.
“Crossing the finish line was an incredible feeling, but what will stay with me most are the conversations we had along the way. Everywhere we stopped, people would applaud and cheer but also wanted to know more about inclusive cycling and why it matters. Every conversation was another opportunity to share our vision of a future where everyone has the chance to ride. There is a big opportunity and willingness in the North East but it will take effort, collaboration and cross department investment to ensure there is quality inclusive cycling in every district .”

Chief Partnerships Officer Ian Tierney said the challenge demonstrated the strength of the Wheels for All community.
“The ride was tough, but the encouragement we received from volunteers, participants, supporters and partners made every mile worthwhile. This challenge reminded us that we’re part of something much bigger than a bike ride. Every pound raised helps us create more opportunities for people to experience the freedom and joy of cycling. The support from Tomcat and VanRaam was incredible – we would have struggled without them to lean on. “

Nick Green reflected on the personal achievement of completing the challenge.
“It was one of the hardest things I’ve done, but also one of the most rewarding. Riding alongside Paul and Ian while meeting so many fantastic people along the route made every mile count. Knowing the funds raised will help more people access inclusive cycling made every pedal stroke worthwhile.”
The final two days were made even more memorable by supporters who joined the team on the road.

Broadcaster and cycling advocate Simon O’Brien rode alongside the team throughout Day Two, lending his support to the challenge and helping spread the message of inclusive cycling to even more people.
“Inclusive cycling is about opening doors. Everyone deserves the opportunity to experience what a bike can offer, whether that’s independence, confidence, improved health or simply the joy of getting outdoors. It was a privilege to ride alongside the Wheels for All team.”

The final leg into Newcastle saw Nazia from Tomcat join the riders aboard a Tomcat adapted cycle, highlighting the importance of partnerships that make inclusive cycling possible.
“Seeing the team complete this challenge was incredibly inspiring. At Tomcat, we’re passionate about designing cycles that help people ride without barriers, and it was fantastic to join them for the final miles into Newcastle. Together, we’re helping make cycling accessible for more people.”

We Ride Together North would not have been possible without the generosity of everyone who donated, volunteered, cheered the riders on, shared the campaign or welcomed the team along the route.

Every message of support, every conversation and every donation has helped move us one step closer to a future where inclusive cycling is available in every community.

While the challenge may be over, the journey continues.

There are still thousands of disabled people and people living with long-term health conditions who are unable to access cycling opportunities close to home. By continuing to support Wheels for All, you’re helping us create more inclusive spaces, provide more adapted cycles, train more volunteers and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to experience the freedom, independence and connection that cycling can bring.

You can still also make a donation to the We Ride Together North challenge here: https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/weridetogethernorth