Hundreds ride in for a ‘wheely’ good show
09 Apr 2014
University of Manchester Bike Users’ Group celebrates 1,000 members
Hundreds of cyclists gathered to celebrate 1,000 members of the University of Manchester’s Bicycle Users’ Group (UMBUG), making it the biggest in any University across the UK
Dr Michael Bane, UMBUG Chair, together with University dignitaries, presented the 1,000th member, Susie Wallace, with “UMBUG 1000” branded hoodie, t-shirt and cake.
Michael noted the that 1,000 members makes UMBUG the largest bicycle users’ group in UK academia and that the University’s figure of one in 10 staff cycling to work makes it five times better than the UK average.
He also applauded the community spirit of UMBUG, with its members supporting each other and having a voice that is taken seriously by those investing in cycling infrastructure.
During the presentation, Professor Colin Hughes (Associate Vice President for Sustainability), Professor Aneez Esmail (Associate Vice President for Social Responsibility) and Julian Skyrme (Director of Social Responsibility) – all regular cyclists themselves – praised the work of UMBUG in supporting cycling and growing the UMBUG community, noting the importance of cycling as a means of sustainable travel, both in terms of reducing carbon emissions and social responsibility.
Susie added: “I'm proud to be part of such a fantastic group of cyclists. To have 1000 members is so impressive and means that there is a lot of support available to new and existing members.’’
The event funded by the University’s Environmental Sustainability Team, included entertainment by Spokes Cycling Dance Troupe and free refreshments.
To find out more about UMBUG or to join the growing community: