Posted: 25 June, 2026
As part of our 35th anniversary celebrations, we’re shining a spotlight on some of the incredible people who have helped shape Wheels for All over the years. Today, we’re celebrating Sheila, a long-standing volunteer whose passion and commitment have helped bring inclusive cycling opportunities to people across South Cumbria.
Sheila’s journey with Wheels for All began with a personal search for accessible cycling opportunities for her husband, who was living with Parkinson’s.
Back in 2013, the couple travelled to Watchtree, over an hour from home, to explore adapted cycling options. While they found a suitable cycle, Sheila was left wondering how many other people in South Cumbria were missing out simply because there wasn’t a local provision available.
“It had bothered me that we hadn’t been more aware of this facility earlier,” Sheila recalls. “I was inspired to do something about trying to instigate a more local option here in the south of Cumbria.”
A chance conversation about cycling in 2014 led Sheila to connect with a group of like-minded individuals who were already exploring the possibility of creating an inclusive cycling offer in the area. Working alongside representatives from community groups, the Lake District National Park and Cumbria County Council, Sheila played an important role in the early development of what would become Kendal Wheels for All.
One of her first tasks was researching organisations already using adapted cycles, including schools and specialist centres, gathering valuable feedback to help inform the project. The group later organised a successful open day at Brockhole in 2017 to raise awareness and attract support, before the Kendal Wheels for All project officially got underway in 2018.
Since then, Sheila has become a familiar face at sessions, helping wherever she is needed.
“I help in whatever way I can,” she says. “I’m not a mechanic and I don’t mind a bit of admin, but I do like to accompany the participants on their rides.”
She regularly supports weekly sessions attended by local Special Educational Needs School (SENS) pupils and enjoys spending time alongside participants as they experience the freedom and joy of cycling.
What has kept Sheila volunteering for so many years is a simple but powerful belief.
“I feel strongly about the need to provide opportunities for all to experience and enjoy new challenges.”
It’s a philosophy that has underpinned her commitment to the project and one that continues to inspire her today.
When asked what she enjoys most about volunteering, Sheila doesn’t hesitate in telling us
“Seeing the enthusiasm and enjoyment experienced by our participants and, of course, my fellow volunteers.”
Over the years, she has witnessed countless memorable moments. While choosing just one proves impossible, she speaks warmly about the growth of the Kendal group and the many opportunities it has created.
“We have been lucky to have had the leadership of three very inspiring coordinators – Kath, Chris and Stuart – over the last 8 years, who have all brought their own individual skills and knowledge to the group.”
Sheila has also helped support numerous off-site events and activities, giving participants the chance to take on new challenges while helping raise awareness of inclusive cycling within the wider community.
The impact of Wheels for All on participants and their families is something Sheila sees first-hand every week.
“For some parents and relatives, it’s an opportunity to step back, and that is much appreciated. For others it has encouraged them to explore cycling together as a family. Some participants have also benefited from the support we have been able to provide during recovery periods, such as after operations.”
While Sheila is passionate about the difference Wheels for All makes for others, volunteering has also given something back to her.
“Seeing members of the local community benefit from the opportunities that Wheels for All brings, and being part of the team.”
For anyone considering volunteering, her advice is simple:
“Give it a try. We all have something to give, and something to learn. It will be much appreciated.”
As Wheels for All marks 35 years of providing inclusive cycling opportunities, Sheila remains optimistic about the future.
“I’m hopeful that Wheels for All will continue growing and providing much-needed opportunities for communities across the UK.”
From helping establish inclusive cycling in South Cumbria to supporting hundreds of participants over the years, Sheila’s contribution has been invaluable. Her story is a reminder that the success of Wheels for All has always been built on the dedication, compassion and determination of volunteers who believe that cycling should be accessible to everyone.
As we celebrate 35 years of Wheels for All, we thank Sheila for her incredible support and for helping make inclusive cycling a reality for so many people.
