York Rally and Eroica Britannia

What a month June was for cycling events. Most notably for me the return of the York Rally as well as the second run of Eroica Britannia in Bakewell. 2 events in spectacular cycling areas bringing people together socially around our passion for cycling.

York Rally

Martyn Bolt, Councillor for Yorkshire and Humber, provided me with his comments on York Rally: 'It was an absolute pleasure to see York Rally back on the calendar this year, now under the stewardship of a fully voluntary committee. I toured the event and went out for a ride chatting to cyclists & CTC members as one of the region's CTC Councillors and there was unanimous praise from everyone I spoke to.

Naturally there have been changes to the format to reflect this but the foundations of this historic & traditional CTC event are in good hands, as seen by the camp site being very busy, and a good attendance from families

Trade tents, saddlebag sales & auctions were complimented by the displays from  cycling clubs & bodies and refreshment stalls along with a comprehensive ride programme and the return of the Sunday church service which I am told was at capacity.

The event is also supported by a sportive in September , https://www.britishcycling.org.uk/events/details/126982/York-Rally-Grande-Classic
Whilst the organisers are now hoping to return to an annual event, as we write the date cannot be confirmed  as it has to fit in with the small matter of horse racing on the Knavesmire

Watch the website  www.yorkrally.org  for future news'

I also spoke to Reg Tuckwood, a stalwart of our Nottinghamshire member group and he went along for the day and had a fabulous time meeting up with long and enduring acquaintances.

Eroica Britannia

I was torn between the events, and the only thing I can say is please please please plan better organisers to have these on different weekends next year. I had already committed to go to Eroica with friends when the dates for York came out. It was a fabulous event drawing people from all cycling backgrounds to a family event in the centre of Bakewell. Quite honestly it also drew in a lot of people who would never class themselves as cyclists but may use a bike from time to time. Over 40,000 people attended for this extravaganza. I was a CTC volunteer on the rides on Sunday and spent from 6am in a cool and wet busy road junction encouraging the brave cyclists on their way. A great weekend was had by all.

Jaki Lowe
East Midlands Councillor