Two people sit in a Triobike passenger seat and gaze over York University lake.
Following his retirement as a Merseyside Council driver, Len worked for 20 years as one of the original Lollipop Men. This allowed him time to spend on his passions – cycling and organic gardening. Len moved to York 4 years ago to be nearer to his family.
Len now lives in supported accommodation. At 91, both he and his family are always on the lookout for things that he can do that will be stimulating and beneficial for him. Our Cycling Without Age Nature Rides appeared to be all of those things. They combined his love of cycling, nature and being outside.
Len had an introductory ride on our passenger Triobike at a community engagement event. The Triobike allows up to 2 people to sit in a front ‘sofa on wheels’. They are then cycled around by a volunteer ‘pedaller’ seated behind them. Len was accompanied by his daughter Di on his first ride. They both then felt confident that this was something he could do on his own.
“The rides were very good, and sociable. I enjoyed getting out and watching the leaves falling off the trees”. For Len and his family, the rides mean that he is able to get to see places that are now too far for him to walk to. They make a welcome change from his usual routines, and enable him to have an experience independent of his family or a carer.
On the rides, Len is able to be fully immersed in nature. He can experience smells, sounds and sensations that he is not able to in a car. Len said that he enjoys being able to take his time experiencing it all. He doesn’t have to worry about his mobility, falling, or where to find the next seat. “If I could, I would do this every week!” said Len.
“I just think it is fabulous” said Di. “He really enjoyed the company of the volunteer pedallers. It’s just such an accessible way to experience nature in your own community. “
“One of the high points was the positive reactions to my Dad on the Triobike. Lots of people smiled and waved. We felt like the Queen!”
York Bike Belles 