A local cycling group are resuming their group riding activities this Sunday with a series of rides aimed at those who have discovered (or rediscovered) cycling during the lockdown.
The afternoon rides, aimed at beginners and families or anyone who wants a gentle low-key ride along quiet roads and cycle paths, will explore the area surrounding Dumfries, culminating in a trip out to Mabie Forest.
Fully compliant with Scottish Government coronavirus guidelines, the outings will offer people a chance to get out in small groups and get some gentle exercise socially in the fresh air, as well as discover new routes locally.
The rides are:
Sunday 27th September: 12 Apostles (7 miles)
Sunday 4th October: Glen Road (8 miles)
Sunday 11th October: Heathhall Forest (6 miles+)
Sunday 18th October: Mabie Forest (11 miles)
Cycling Dumfries are running four free rides on Sunday afternoons, beginning with an excursion to the 12 Apostles stone circle on the 27th September. Starting at 1:30pm from Dock Park, the rides range from 6 miles to 11 miles in length and replace the group’s normal popular summer Family Rides, which had to be cancelled this year due to government restrictions. The rides have had to change to comply with government guidance, with participants heading out in smaller groups 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 gutted to have to cancel our summer rides this year but we’re really excited that these rides will give people a chance to gain cycling confidence and discover new places to cycle in the area. Being outside and in the fresh air is important for people’s mental health and we all crave chances to meet people safely in these uncertain times. All of our rides will get people out into the beautiful countryside that surrounds Dumfries but will be short enough and slow so that most people can manage them. Our only disappointment is that we can’t share any home baking as we normally do – these rides will definitely be a case of ‘bring your own cake’.”
Anyone interested in joining the rides is urged to book in advance via the group’s website or Facebook page, in order to comply with government guidelines.
