A free ‘Introduction to DIY Bicycle Maintenance’ workshop is coming to Westfield, Midsomer Norton, Paulton and Radstock.

These interactive workshops, designed to give you the skills to maintain and care for your bicycle, are being delivered by Sustrans for Active Steps, part of the Active Way project.

Many of us would like to enjoy all the benefits of cycling, but we can be put off when our bike is left neglected in the shed. Cycling is a fantastic way to fit exercise into our daily lives while shopping or commuting. Whether your aim is to boost mental wellbeing, connect with nature, improve your sleep or improve your health and fitness, these maintenance lessons will help keep your wheels turning.

Sessions will be held at the following locations:

Westfield Methodist Church Wednesday 13 September 6.30 - 8.30pm

Unit 14, Midsomer Norton Tuesday 26 September 6.30 – 8.30pm

Paulton Village Hall Thursday 12 October 6.30 – 8.30pm

Hope House Surgery, Radstock Tuesday 24 October 6.30 – 8.30pm

These free Introduction to Bicycle Maintenance sessions will be fun and relaxed events, with plenty of time to ask questions over a cup of tea/coffee or soft drink. There is no need to bring your own bicycle as demonstrations will be provided. The evenings will focus on basic checks and easy maintenance tips to ensure your bicycles are safe, as well as troubleshooting common issues such as punctures.

To book your place, sign up for a session via: https://theactivewayreferrals.riviam.io and choose the DIY Bike Maintenance option. For more information: call 07926 074181 or email: [email protected]

Marjory Hatvany, Active Steps Officer, says her role is to encourage and support people in the Somer Valley to walk and cycle more often. “I’m a great believer that, rather than being a ‘cyclist’, we can just be people on bikes – in our normal clothes enjoying our everyday journeys. Gaining a few basic skills will enhance our cycling experience.”

Rachel, who attended the first session, said afterwards “Really enjoyed this very much. Spot on event to increase knowledge in an accessible way so my confidence is boosted. Would like to do this again!”

The charity Sustrans is working with Bath and North East Somerset Council on the Active Way project which helps connect people living in the Somer Valley to local activities, groups and services to improve their health and wellbeing. Active Steps is a free ten-week programme which includes weekly guided walks and rides, tailored to individual needs.

Active Steps also offers free bike loans with accessories such as helmets, lights and locks. One-to-one support to build confidence will be on hand as well as advice and support throughout the programme. As well as improving physical and mental health, this will be a fun and sociable experience while enjoying the outdoors, and a chance to learn more about walking and cycling routes in the area. 

You can sign up to their 10 week Active Steps programme of walking and/or cycling by choosing the Active Steps option via the following link.