Pedall, an inclusive cycling organisation are offering an off-road cycling experience in the New Forest.
The cycling sessions are designed for anyone who wants to enjoy the cycling experience, regardless of physical or intellectual ability including those that face barriers accessing the National Park.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with BUZZ news with Gareth Jones, operations manager at Pedall, he said:
“When they arrive at their first session, you see their face light up because of how life-changing it is for people who never would have thought that they could ride a bike.
“But actually realizing that with a little bit of specialist equipment and some help that anything is possible if you believe in something special.
The project invites people who have an interest in cycling around the New Forest as well as promoting the benefits of spending time outdoors.
He said: “We often get lots of parents and kids who are hesitant to join but they feel relaxed once they see what our campaign is all about.
“It’s definitely the best thing about my job, to see the smile on their faces is definitely very rewarding for me. To know that I’ve impacted their lives in a good way and getting them outside is the best thing about my job.”
PEDALL, originally called ‘New Forest Inclusive Cycling’, was started in 2011 by the New Forest National Park Authority but its official form of ‘PEDALL’ was created in 2017 after receiving funds from the National Lottery Community to help contribute to equipment and venues.
The charity is also supported by Forestry England and other generous donors.
Jones said: “ Receiving the lottery fund was a good step in the right direction, it helped push the project in terms of improving the quality of sessions which ultimately invites more people to join.”
It’s now been 9 years since the project was officially formed, with Jones noticing the remarkable growth and what the next step is for Pedall.
He said: “ Our ambition is to continue to find funding and provide the best facility for our team because right now we’re really busy in terms of bookings.”
“We’re fully booked in March, that’s when we begin to ride again, up until December which is always a good sign.”
Walking football gives men a new lease of life