Record number of adults at our cycle confidence sessions

A record 390 adults attended the sessions delivered by Active Devon in 2024/25, and we’re aiming to beat that by reaching more than 500 adults this year.

Bike Week is being celebrated in Devon this week (9-15 June) with the news that more adults in the county took part in our cycle confidence sessions last year than ever before.

A record 390 adults attended the sessions delivered by Active Devon in 2024/25, and we’re aiming to beat that by reaching more than 500 adults this year.

Bike Week highlights the many benefits of cycling, from boosting health and wellbeing to cutting carbon emissions, and Bike Week 2025 is promoting cycle sessions for adults.

A variety of free cycle training is offered by Active Devon to suit different needs and abilities – from beginners learning to ride, mixed ability confidence sessions, intermediate “confidence on road” sessions and bespoke workplace sessions.

Councillor Jacqi Hodgson, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Biodiversity, said:

 

“It’s great news to see that more adults than ever before are taking part in our cycle training, and Bike Week is the perfect time to encourage others to do the same. Cycling is for everyone, and it offers so many benefits for your health and the environment. Our adult cycle confidence sessions are a great way to discover or rediscover cycling. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a beginner looking to give cycling a go, or someone getting back on their bike to get fit, or a regular cyclist wanting to improve your skills to commute more often, the sessions cater for all abilities.”

Aaron Harverson, Cycling Champion for Active Devon, said: “We’re so proud to deliver this inspiring programme designed to help more people discover the joy of cycling. We know that learning to cycle—or getting back in the saddle—can feel daunting, but it can also be one of the most empowering things you’ll ever do. Cycling in nature boosts your physical and mental wellbeing, builds confidence, and supports a cleaner, greener Devon. Our friendly sessions are open to people of all abilities, right across the county. So why not give it a go? Book a session today and start your cycling journey with us.”

With more people taking part in cycle training, everyone is being reminded of the County Council’s Share this Space campaign which aims to promote patience on the county’s roads, paths and multi-use trails.

The advice through the campaign is:

– Cyclists are asked to please pass walkers slowly and carefully, letting people know you’re there and giving them space;
– Dog walkers on shared paths are asked to keep dogs under close control on a short lead;
– Pedestrians are advised to check for traffic if they are crossing the road;
– Drivers and motorcyclists are urged to be considerate and to give vulnerable road users such as cyclists and horse-riders extra space (two metres if possible) when passing them. Also be aware of the possibility of pedestrians stepping into the road.