Rachel Furness Welcomed Bill’s Marvellous Bike Booth

Rachel Furness from Newcastle United unveiled “Bill’s Bike Booth” – a marvellous covered bike rack providing shelter and security for everyone using the centre – earlier this morning.

After a formidable career in the top tier of professional football in the UK and Europe, Rachel said she was delighted to return to the region as Head Coach of Newcastle United’s Under-16 Women’s Team.

Joining the celebrations was Sandra Graham, North Tyneside Council Cabinet Member responsible for Community Safety and the Climate Emergency. A keen champion and supporter of Linskill’s community cycling activities, she highlighted how North Tyneside Council continued to develop new cycle paths across the borough.

Safe and dry cycle parking was highlighted as one of the key pieces of cycling infrastructure known to increase riders’ enjoyment and confidence – the twin aims of Linskill Riders Community Cycling Club. Centre user Annie Hodgkiss said:

“I want to cycle here as I live in Whitley Bay and it’s not too far, but if I couldn’t park my bike safely I would come by car – and the car park is often full to overflowing. If more people cycled here it would help us all, and we’d be healthier.”

Bill Goldsmith, one of Linskill Riders’ volunteers, raised the funds for the shelter and enjoyed the occasion alongside Lucy Fenwick, Community Programme Project Officer, volunteer ride leaders, enthusiastic cycling club members and centre users.

Lucy explained that while Linskill Riders supported and encouraged everyone, it particularly appealed to people returning to cycling after some years away. Pedal bikes and e-bikes were all welcome, and the club’s qualified ride leaders took out small group rides on safe, local routes, which always included a coffee stop.

Simeon Ripley, CEO, said:

“Linskill and North Tyneside Development is all about listening to and serving the many people who use the centre throughout the year. We were thrilled and thankful, yet again, to Bill Goldsmith for his fundraising in support of Linskill Riders.”

To find more about cycling at Linskill please email community.programme@linskill.org