Oxford Road workers cut pollute from commute for Bike To Work Day

17 Jun 2008

Academic and NHS staff in Manchester will turn their backs on cars, buses and trains for National Bike to Work Day.

An initiative between The University of Manchester, Manchester Metropolitan University, Central Manchester and Manchester Children's University Hospitals NHS Trust and The Royal Northern College of Music – known collectively as The Higher Education Precinct – is encouraging staff to make their way into Manchester using pedal power.

On Wednesday, workers who don’t normally cycle are being encouraged to dust off their bikes and accompany more experienced riders along a number of routes into the city centre.

The idea is that cyclists will start off from a number of areas - including Chorlton, Prestwich, Sale and Ashton – and pick up fellow riders along the way.

On reaching Manchester, cyclists will converge en masse on Bridgeford Street where a range of activities – including maintenance workshops and security marking – will take place. There will also be a range of cycling-related prizes up for grabs.

Andrew Hough, HEP Travel Plan Co-ordinator, said: “Cycling to work is clean, green and great for your health – and can often be quicker than commuting by car or public transport.

“We’re delighted with the level of support and participation in the event. We have even given people who don’t own bikes the opportunity to hire them free of charge this week, to get a taste of travelling to work using pedal power.”

The event forms part of National Bike Week (www.bikeweek.org.uk), which aims to promote cycling as a source of fitness and fun.

Anyone working for the Universities, RNCM or the NHS Trust wishing to find out more about their options for cycling to work can contact Andrew on a.j.hough@mmu.ac.uk, Tel 0161 247 1364.