Get free cycle safety checks at railway stations this summer

Transport for West Midlands’ (TfWM) has teamed up with West Midlands Railway and Cycling UK to host cycle safety sessions throughout the summer.

The Love Your Bike sessions will be calling at some of the region’s busiest railway stations over the next few weeks to  check cycles are safe and offer security marking.

Many more people have been cycling following the coronavirus lockdown and the sessions offer a chance to find out how to keep safe. Love Your Bike is a key element of TfWM’s award-winning cycle crime work.

Attendance is free and there is no need to book – people can just turn up at the station between 4.30pm and 6.30pm.

Social distancing measures will be in place to keep staff and participants safe. Stations hosting events include Kings Norton, Bromsgrove, Sandwell and Dudley, Selly Oak, Stourbridge Junction and Sutton Coldfield.

The first five participants at each event will receive a free bicycle ‘D-lock’.

Customers can also purchase gold standard D-Locks for just £10 at the Network WM Travel Shops in Birmingham New Street station and at Wolverhampton bus station.

West Midlands Railway has funded the sessions which are being delivered by our partners at Cycling UK as part of the Big Bike Revival campaign.

TfWM managing director Laura Shoaf said: “This is a great example of our partnership working and commitment to reducing cycle theft and helping commuters travel safely as the region recovers from the pandemic.”

Brenda Lawrence, head of stations for West Midlands Railway, said: “Helping our customers travel sustainably is a priority for us, which is why we’re proud to support these bike safety and security sessions with our partners.

“We’re also investing in thousands of secure cycle spaces supported by CCTV across our network to help passengers travel with confidence.”

Jenny Box, Cycling UK’s head of development and behaviour change said: “Cycling to the station is not just free and fun, but also one of the best ways to travel at the moment while maintaining social distance. However, there’s one fear we all have, leaving our locked bike and returning to find it has gone.

“Having the right lock and more importantly knowing how to lock your bike securely are just as essential as having a smoothly running bike. Cycling UK would encourage everyone to take advantage of Love Your Bike where you can get a quick tune up, free bike marking and learn how to lock your bike properly.”

Photo credit: Transport for West Midlands

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