CYCLE TRAINING IN COLCHESTER, CHELMSFORD, IPSWICH, NORWICH AND LONDON
Britain will never be like the Netherlands or Denmark, which have miles of traffic-free cycle paths.
Quite simply we don't have the roadspace to put in such a network - and when we have tried to copy the Continental approach, the result has been stop-start glass-covered paths that lead nowhere.
Instead, UK cycling groups have decided that by and large, on-road cycling is best, although we can expect separate provision on faster, busier roads.The message will be: share the road.
At the art of this policy will be lower speeds (more towns are going over to blanket 20mph limits on residential roads) and improved driver and rider training which will encourage respect, tolerance and confidence.
The new Government-approved standard of cycle training, which is replacing the old Proficiency test, is called Bikeability.
Even if you have ridden a bike for years - and if you are a driver, too - it is likely that you will learn something new from a Bikeability course. Think of as an advanced driving qualification for cyclists!
As from December 2008, all Essex County Council training will be under the Bikeability banner. This is one of the spin-offs of Colchester and Southend gaining Cycling Town status.
The best way to find out about Bikeability availability in Colchester is to contact Richard Monk, the Colchester Cycling Champions Co-ordinator. You can also contact Richard if you want to find out how to train as an instructor.
Alternatively, you can visit Cycle Training East, which helps train cyclists at schools, companies with green transport plans, and individuals.
Essex County Council also has details of courses for (mainly for children at the moment, but likely to be extended). Ring ECC's Colchester office on 01206 573353.
In Chelmsford, you can try Cycle Training East, in Norwich Kevin Simpson, and in Ipswich Kevin and Noelle Ablitt. If you work in London, you may like to try the London School of Cycling, ring 020 7249 3779. If you go to the website, beware ... it is very red!
Finally, no matter how proficient you are, keep a copy of Cyclecraft handy. Cyclecraft, by John Franklin, is an HMSO publication available from the town library.
If you simply want to find how to learn to ride a bike, or teach a child, download Learn to Ride
