New record for Noss bike train as 92 pedal to school
Noss Primary School’s bike train has set a new record with 92 cyclists taking part on Thursday.
Numbers have been increasing steadily for the weekly cycle-to-school initiative in which pupils are accompanied by adult leaders.
And next Friday they hope to be joined by Maree Todd, the MSP for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross and Scottish Government minister for social care, mental wellbeing and sport.
The bike train is being trialled as a partnership between Noss Primary School and national charity Cycling UK.
It starts at Staxigoe, with pupils joining at different points along the route through various residential streets on the north side of Wick.
Head teacher Fraser Thomson said: “This morning we broke our record as 92 cyclists made the journey to school. That’s 35 per cent of our school cycling to school.
“We trialled a side-by-side tandem courtesy of Cycling UK. We will be adding a trailer to the tandem next week for passengers to join us on our journey.
“We look forward to welcoming Maree Todd next Friday to join us on our cycle in.”
George Ewing, Cycling UK’s Caithness-based development officer, said: “Cycling UK is delighted with the volume of folk that want to join the bike train. It has exceeded our expectations.
“It’s great to see so many children and parents wanting to cycle to school together. Other road users have been fantastic and we would like to thank them for being so patient and considerate while we make our way to school.”
The previous week had seen 74 cyclists making the journey.
Speaking last month, after the first Noss bike train, Mr Ewing said: “Pupils, family and staff are all welcome to join the train and are encouraged to wear reflective/bright clothing, which can be provided. Bikes must be roadworthy and helmets must be worn.
“School bike trains are a great way for kids to start their school day. It encourages healthy physical habits, helps to get pupils to school on time, reduces congestion around the school and most of all it’s great fun.”
Pupils, family members and staff are welcome if they want to get involved.
It has been made possible by a grant of £15,875.41 that enabled Noss to buy cycles and equipment for the community to access free of charge. More than 30 bikes were acquired through Cycling UK and the UCI Legacy Cycle Share Fund.
