Sponsored Bike Ride: July 2024

Young people from Lewes schools have raised £718 for Surfers Against Sewage in their third annual sponsored bike ride from Lewes to Iford and back. The event was supported by Cycle Lewes, Egrets Way, and East Sussex County Council Highways, with a free stopover at Iford Community Hall.

Participants benefited from bike safety checks provided by Dr Bike, marshals along the route, and a paramedic bringing up the rear to ensure everyone’s safety.

Young cyclists shared their excitement after the ride. Steve said, “More people should use bikes for transport because I loved it and would definitely do it again.”

Rosa added, “I absolutely loved it and would definitely do it again.”

Sheila O’Sullivan, Chair of Cycle Lewes, reflected on the event: “We enjoy seeing the enthusiasm of our young Lewes riders and support their calls for safer routes to walk and cycle to school.”

Looking ahead, Green United has several projects planned for the coming year, including:

• Publishing a map of less polluted walking and cycling routes to Lewes schools
• Organising an inter-school clothes swap
• Presenting a proposal to Priory governors for planting a hedge along Ham Lane
• Contributing to the organisation of a Lewes Schools Environmental Conference at the University of Sussex in February

These initiatives continue to demonstrate the energy, creativity and commitment of young people to making Lewes a healthier, greener, and more sustainable town.