Newbury Velo launches inclusive project to help visually impaired riders enjoy the great outdoors

A Newbury cycling club has launched a new project to help visually impaired riders enjoy some time on a bike in the West Berkshire countryside, writes Max Carter Keall.

Newbury Velo has made great strides in inclusive cycling after launching its tandem project on Saturday (October 8).

Instigated by club founder, Glen Knight, the programme is a unique project and one which the club hopes will expand further. With the help of Greenham Trust, they have raised £6,500 to purchase four tandem bikes, plus the necessary maintenance tools and a secure storage unit.

Along with purchasing the bikes, Newbury Velo has successfully trained five of its members – Mark Chance, Newbury Town Council leader Martin Colston, Chris Dace, Andy Jones and Claire Vincent – to pilot a tandem in a programme designed by some of the club's British Cycling qualified coaches.

The programme was championed by club president and chairman Kevin Hurley, and the skills initiative was masterminded by Melanie Sneddon, alongside experienced tandemeers Rachael Elliott and Ian Greenstreet.

Ms Elliott lost most of her sight in 2018 following a brain haemorrhage that resulted in a stroke, but after discovering tandem riding she has got back on the road and has won races on a national level, with Mr Greenstreet.

She believes cycling is beneficial for the health and wellbeing of those with visual impairments and allows them to experience Berkshire’s incredible countryside.

Ms Elliott said she was "passionate that others in her situation should experience those same benefits", and has helped to ensure the coaching programme not only addresses the skills required for tandem riding, but also includes the intricacies required to take out those with impairments out on the road.

Mr Hurley said: "Our members are well aware of the physical and mental benefits of cycling in the fresh air in the West Berkshire countryside.

"So, with the help of Greenham Trust, they got behind the fundraising initiative to raise the money required for this tandem project.

"Now, thanks to our coaches and volunteers, we are ready to bring these benefits to those who otherwise would find it difficult to get out on a bike."

The club, which now has nearly 300 members, also offers a children's coaching programme that is open to anyone aged between five and 12.

To get involved with the club or the tandem programme, email Rachael Elliott on secretary@newburyvelo.cc