As Scotland emerges cautiously from lockdown, a local cycle campaign group is resuming its group rides over the Easter school holidays.
With a programme of four rides (two per Sunday afternoon), these outings are particularly suitable for beginners and families with young children. Fully compliant with Scottish Government coronavirus guidelines, the small groups will explore the cycle paths and quiet streets both in and around Dumfries
Cycling Dumfries are running four free rides – two on Sunday 11th April, and two on Sunday 18th April with one very easy ‘Explorer’ ride and one slightly more challenging ‘Discovery’ option each afternoon. Starting from 1:30 pm from Dock Park, the first weekend offers a choice between a six-mile ride out to Heathhall Forest via the Caledonian Cyclepath, and a much shorter one along the river to Mavis Grove and back via Troqueer. The second weekend will offer a longer ride to Mabie Forest along the off-road cycle path, or a short exploration of the back streets of Dumfries to Lincluden Abbey. The rides have had to change to comply with stricter government guidance, with fewer space available and no refreshments provided but will still aim to be sociable rides run ‘at the speed of chat’.
Cycling Dumfries Convenor Sally Hinchcliffe said, “We were very disappointed at the start of this year when we had to cancel our traditional New Year’s Day ride, and the rest of our winter ride programme, so as soon as it became possible to run organised group rides again we’ve been planning how we can get out. We’re particularly keen to offer something for new cyclists or families who have discovered cycling during the last year, but who might not have been out on a group ride before. That’s why we’re offering two very short and accessible rides to Mavis Grove and Lincluden as well as our very popular rides to Heathhall and Mabie. We really enjoyed our ride programme in September and October last year and we’re looking forward to seeing both old friends and new faces this time around.”
Anyone interested in joining the rides is urged to book in advance. All four free rides and booking links can be found on the Cycling Dumfries website or booked directly through Eventbrite
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/cycling-dumfries-31199416773
The rides are:
Sunday 11th April: 1:30 – Heathhall Forest (6 miles); 1:45 – Mavis Grove (3.5 miles)
Sunday 18th April: 1:30 – Mabie Forest (11 miles); 1:45 – Lincluden Abbey (4 miles)
Rides are suitable for cyclists of all abilities and ages. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
