Scottish Borders to host Belles on Bikes

Lawyer Brenda Mitchell, is bringing Belles on Bikes, the initiative that organises bike rides, training and maintenance instruction specifically for women, to the Scottish Borders.

Brenda, founder of the specialist law firm, Cycle Law Scotland, believes that women hold the key to Scotland becoming a cycling nation and is calling on local women to join the Borders’ Belles on Bikes first cycle ride on Saturday, August 30th.

The bike ride starts from Eastgate car park in Peebles at 10am. It is approximately 18 miles long, taking in Cardrona, Innerleithen and Walkerburn to enjoy some beautiful Borders landscape. Women of all levels of cycling experience are welcome.

As part of the group, women will also have access to workshops and skills sessions to give them more confidence on the roads.

Mitchell said:

“Speak to any female cyclist and you will find a champion for the campaign to see more people take to two wheels. These are practical women and passionate women. Some would describe themselves as leisure cyclists, some commuter cyclists, some just cycle to get around quickly and easily.

“Belles on Bikes is run by women for women; to get more women cycling and to enjoy the benefits. Our message is that cycling is empowering. It reinforces a sense of independence and it beats waiting for a bus.”

She added:

“In a recent online discussion amongst women cyclists, the belief that cycling as a sporting activity rather than a means of transport, was thought to be holding some back from using their bikes more often. Better that cycling is seen as a part of daily life, rather than as a challenge.

“That said, the top reason given for stopping more women taking up cycling was fears around safety. That is why initiatives like Belles on Bikes are so important. The perception that cycling is somehow dangerous has to be eradicated if Scotland is to become a cycling nation.”

Belles on Bikes is supported by CTC Scotland and Cycling Scotland, and was first set up in Glasgow in March 2012. There is also a group operating in Edinburgh.