Sponsored Bike Ride: July 2022

One of the priorities identified by young people across Lewes was the need for greater collaboration between schools on environmental action. From this idea grew the Schools Sponsored Bike Ride — an inspiring example of students working together to make a difference.

In 2022, 30 young people representing six schools completed a sponsored off-road cycle ride from Lewes to Iford and back. The event was attended by Deputy Mayor Cllr Matthew Bird and raised over £960 for Re-Cycle, an organisation that refurbishes donated bikes from the UK and provides affordable, sustainable transport in partnership with community groups in Africa.

The idea for the ride came from 10-year-old Finnuala, who said: “I didn’t realise it would be such a big thing, and I think it’s brilliant that we’re helping such a great charity. Thank you so much, Cycle Lewes, Egrets Way and everyone else for making this possible.”

Jago, also aged 10, added: “I wanted to help organise the bike ride because it’s good to help people in other countries.”

Sheila O’Sullivan, speaking on behalf of Cycle Lewes, reflected: “We were delighted to respond to the young people’s request for help in this joint school initiative. Events like these give young people the confidence to cycle and to experience cycling through our beautiful countryside on a route that is almost traffic-free.”

Cllr Matthew Bird, who presented certificates designed by Jago, said: “I was thrilled to be able to attend the Green United bike ride. It’s another brilliant sustainability initiative put forward by local young people that highlights the health, climate and fun benefits of cycling!”