When Cycle Shepway was launched, it felt like an uphill struggle to get our voices heard. All cyclists will sympathise with that feeling.
Since those days, we have built up a network of friends and allies from all political persuasions that has helped us in a wide variety of ways over the years. We would like to take this opportunity to thank them wholeheartedly for their support, and to those we forget to mention, please forgive us. In fact, if you send us a message we will happily include it on our new website!
For example, thanks must go to David Monk, Leader of Folkestone & Hythe District Council and Councillor Cllr Stuart Peall, F&HDC’s appointed Cycling Champion for supporting us in our work.
Many members of Folkestone & Hythe District Council have responded positively to our campaign to raise awareness about cycling, and Cllr. Connor McConville recently issued this statement in support of cycling:
“I and the other councillors in the Labour group are very supportive of any measures that promote a reduction in carbon usage within the district. We were very happy to support the climate emergency decisions that were taken by council last year and are involved in the discussions to progress that work. I am very aware of the many benefits that cycling can bring, both environmental and health wise, both mental and physical. Also the dangers that still exist for cyclists on the roads and am very happy to support measures that ensure that all road users can coexist safely. The Labour group look forward to working with partners to achieve a greener, safer district for all residents.”
Thanks also to Councillors John Collier & Peter Gane who funded the Cheriton cycle stands. In the past Councillor Malcolm Dearden has sponsored our meetings at the Civic Centre; before that we struggled to find a free venue!
Others who have supported us over the years include Councillor Tim Prater, who recently sent us these words of endorsement:
“Cycle Shepway have been campaigning for better and safer cycling provision across Folkestone and Hythe for years. Cycling is an important part of ensuring that our district meets its target to be carbon neutral by 2030. To do so cycling needs to be a viable transport choice for many more people in our area. We need cycle routes that link up and go where people want to go, and facilities like secure cycle racks and stands when they get there. Cycle Shepway have been working for these goals for years: encouraging, lobbying, motivating and explaining the way forward to Councils and others. They are part of the solution if we are to achieve our goals over the next 10 years.”
More recently, the following five local councillors funded our new website: Lesley Whybrow, John Wing, Georgina Treloar, Rebecca Shoob and Jim Martin – many thanks to all of them for this kind gesture.