Editorial
I have been coordinating the last few issues of the BCC newsletter with the support of other BCC members. The newsletter reflects the activities of the BCC and if like me you have a good collection of back copies, you can chart the successes and failures of the cycling campaign over the last 10 years or so.
In the early years of the cycling campaign, members were more likely to have been involved in direct action to improve cycling and to campaign for the needs of cyclists (examples include the M32 blockade, anti pollution demos, first Reclaim the Streets, Stop the Avon Ring Road and Critical Mass). Cycling infrastructure has improved in Bristol and more people are cycling today than they were 10 years ago. But complacency is probably our biggest concern. I think most members would agree with me (and please write in if you don't) that although there has been substantial progress made to improve the quality of cycling in Bristol, a lot more needs to be done (see Keith's article inside this issue). We need to be ever vigilant -to ensure that all major planning developments in Bristol support cycling, and fight at every opportunity to make the road system safer for cyclists, with speed reduction as a main priority. We also need to support the likes of Life Cycle UK and Sustrans, who have championed cycling through their ground breaking work. I can't stop here without mentioning the City Council Cycling Team who are as committed to improving cy~ling in Bristol as we are, but are often limited by time and funds as well as frustrated by policy and planning decisions made at more. senior levels in the Council. They need our support and constructive criticism, because together we CAN make Bristol a cycling city.
The newsletter has many dimensions other than campaigning work. It provides an opportunity to exchange ideas, sell bicycles, report on cycling holidays and promote our social rides. These activities are immensely important as they bring people together to share a common interest -cycling.
This year we have had rides on virtually every Sunday. Sue Nicholls has been responsible for coordinating and compiling the rides schedule for each quarter. This isn't the easiest of tasks, because not everybody feels confident enough to lead rides. But Sue has persevered and with a combination of cajoling and persuasion has found willing and able leaders. Sue is now stepping down as the rides coordinator so we are looking for a new volunteer -please get! in contact. I would like to thank Sue on behalf of the Bristol Cycling Campaign for all her efforts over the last year and to thank the ride leaders and other BCC members who turn up to support the rides.
Finally, the newsletter simply wouldn't happen unless you, the members, continue to support it with your articles, news, letters and photographs. Please keep them coming and don't wait until the next deadline -copy can arrive at any time throughout the 3 months. Your contributions can be sent to me directly if you have access to a PC and the internet at simon.carpenter@bristolswpct.nhs.uk
Alternatively material for the newsletter can be sent to:
BCC, Box 60, Greenleaf Bookshop, Colston Street, Bristol BS I 5BB.Happy and safe cycling
Simon Carpenter
