In a year when cycling levels increased by as much as 350% and thousands of people took to their bikes to keep themselves and their communities safe, British Cycling has dedicated its Christmas video this year to the power of the humble bicycle.
During the first UK national lockdown in the spring, 1.2 million more people cycled for leisure or sport, as the country enjoyed the warm weather, quieter roads and benefit to their mental wellbeing. Figures from the Bicycle Association show that retailers have seen sales grow by 60% since March, while many more riders revived old bikes found in sheds and garages.
Throughout the year British Cycling adds that its members have ‘continued to receive peace of mind liability cover, legal support and up-to-date guidance on cycling activities.’ The number of those opting for British Cycling’s Commute membership cover has reportedly grown particularly strongly.
At the same time, the support of its members has enabled the national governing body to support the sport through a challenging period and lay the foundations for returning it to full health in 2021.
Commenting on the film’s launch, British Cycling Head of Customer Engagement, Laura Thomas, said “This year hasn’t been without change, but the power of our bikes has never been quite so clear.
“We all know the individual benefits of cycling in terms of our physical and mental health, but through this video we wanted to show that everybody who rides a bike – no matter how fast or how far – is playing a part in making the country a happier, healthier and greener place.
“Over the past decade we’ve seen an incredible rise in the number of people joining British Cycling as members, contributing to the ongoing development of our sport at all levels and helping us to support even more people to ride for fun, fitness or simply an easier way to get around.
“At the end of a year when over a million more people have discovered this joy for themselves, we hope that many of them will join us for the journey too.”
