BIKE WEEK 17 - 25 JUNE - Dorset Cyclists' Network

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DORSET CYCLISTS’ NETWORK

www.dcn.org.ukfounded 1992

campaigning for all cyclists in Dorset

Newsletter no 53May 2006

Recommended price to non-members: 50p

IN THIS ISSUE

Annual General Meeting Sat 17 June 2006, 2.30pm

Methodist Church HallLower Blandford Road, Broadstone

(The Broadway)ALL WELCOME

Nominations for office and motions must be supported by seconders and received by

the County Secretary by 10 June

MEET THE COUNCILLORSIn place of a speaker this year, Councillors

from Dorset, Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch and Weymouth & Portland will

join a discussion after the main business.

DCN Lunch Sat 24 June from 12 noon

Dylans Restaurant, Lytchett MinsterMeet other DCN members over a tasty meal.

£1 off main courses and £1 off dessertsfor members and their guests.

Booking form and directions page 17

You can influence the NEW HIGHWAY

CODESee page 16 for advice if you want to make it more cycle-friendly

BIKE WEEK 17 - 25 JUNETWO EVENTS NOT TO BE MISSED !

PUT SOMETHING BACK INTO CYCLING!

Opportunities to help projects in this issue. Pages 4, 13, 14, 20

2 DCN branches3 DCN diary4 Cycle Training; Ferry to France5 Bournemouth; Police report6 County Council news8 Sea Front Cycling; Sherborne9 Letters; Europe news10 Weymouth & Portland11 Carrying loads safely

12 Company of Cyclists; Macmillan Ride; The Budget13 Wimborne14 Pedal Back the Years; Rail Station theft; Green Party16 Highway Code consultation17 Purbeck; DCN Lunch booking form18 Christchurch19 Poole; Stop at Red!20 North Dorset Trailway21 Bicycle Bits

22 Bike Week advice; Cycle Training contacts23 Useful contacts; Discounts for DCN members24 Membership page; Advertising with DCN

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DORSET CYCLISTS’ NETWORKFounded in Wimborne in 1992, and now covering most of Dorset, DCN speaks for cyclists and promotes cycling in the County. An elected committee is responsible for policy, general management

and finance, while DCN Branches campaign for cyclists in their areas. Membership is open to all. DCN is affiliated to the Cycling Campaign Network (CCN), the Cyclists Touring Club (CTC) and Sustrans. We are members of the Dorset Cycling Liaison Forum and agents for the Environmental Transport

Association. The DCN Constitution, policies and minutes are available to members by sending a stamped addressed envelope or e-mail to the Chairman

WELCOME LUCY!

It’s great to report that Christchurch now has a DCN representative again and that the Branch has met once

more. This is thanks to Lucy Marstrand who offered to take up the post recently, and she has already

been active in meeting members and finding out what needs doing. See page 18 for a full report.

BE SAFE - BE SEENBeing seen by other road users is

obviously essential to our safety. Even on a sunny day, a cyclist in the shadow of a building or hedge can

sometimes be almost invisible to a driver . Thanks to a subsidy from DCN’s

“Robin Povall Fund”, you can get a HIGH VISIBILITY WAISTCOAT

for only £3.00Order form on page 19

DCN County CommitteeChairman Michael Evans QPMFarrs Coach House, Wimborne BH21 4EL 01202 880966 fax 0870 130 6358 [email protected]

County Secretary John Pritchard3 Alexandra Street, Blandford Forum DT11 7EY 01258 455699 [email protected]

Membership Secretary Peter Watkins1a Greenhill Close, Colehill, Wimborne BH21 2RQ 01202 884122 [email protected]

Treasurer Michael Woodhall 10 Wentworth Avenue, Bournemouth BH5 2ED 01202 268838 [email protected]

Blandford John Pritchard (see County Secretary)[email protected]

Bournemouth Ann Davis5A Warren Edge Close, Bournemouth BH6 4EG01202 432056 [email protected]

Bridport Matthew Beeching Hillview, Dodhams Lane, Bridport DT6 3DY01308 421381 [email protected]

Christchurch Lucy Marstrand10 Amsterdam Square, Christchurch BH23 1HE 01202 470939 [email protected]

Dorchester Roland Tarr 70 Monmouth Rd, Dorchester DT1 2DG 01305 262359 [email protected]

Lyme Regis Julian Bond Spinney, Rocombe, Lyme Regis DT7 3RR 01297 444595 [email protected]

Poole Bob Frew “Hillcrest” 17 High Park Road, Poole BH18 9DE 01202 693480 [email protected]

Purbeck John Thraves 5 Trinity Close, Trinity Lane, Wareham BH20 4LL 01929 554550 [email protected]

Sherborne Mark Brettell4 Huish Farm Cottages, Bradford Abbas, DT9 6RE 01935 410462 [email protected]

Weymouth & Portland Mike Kelly13 Viscount Road, Weymouth DT4 9EP 01305 775363 [email protected]

Wimborne Michael Evans (see Chairman)[email protected]

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Rides & EventsVisit the DCN web site for updates

Entries on this page are free. Send details to the Chairman Sunday 21 MayWimborne gentle ride about 2 - 3 hours. Plenty of stops to catch up. David Bourne 01202 882721

27-29 MayTour of Wessex CyclosportiveLittle Weston, Nr Yeovil Choice of routes for new and experienced racers. Pendragon Sports, The Old Rectory, Sutton Montis, Yeovil BA22 7HD. 01963 220137

Weekend 3-4 JuneCycling for Women. On- and off-road rides, cycle workshops and other activities to encourage women to get involved in cycling, and to provide new experiences for existing female cyclists.Contact CTC 0870 873 0060 [email protected]

17 to 25 June Bike Week Organise a local cycle event! See page 23 for advice

COME TO17 June

DCN AGM atBroadstone

24 JuneDCN Lunch at

Lytchett Minster

See front page

Sunday 18 JuneWimborne Ride. As 21 May

Sunday 2 July Macmillan Cancer Relief RideChoice of routes 25km to 100km. Peter Smith-NichollsPO BOX 1432 Broadstone BH18 9YE Tel/Fax: 01202 601705www.macmillan-bike-ride.co.uk

Saturday 5 August 8-11amSwanage Carnival Ride 21km. Riders invited. Marshals needed. Robert Jeffries 07940 739 223

Sunday 3 September Wimborne Ride. As 21 May

Sunday 3 September 10amGuided cycle tour of Kingston Lacy Estate by Countryside Wardens. 3 hours. £5 adults, £3 children. Booking essential. 01202 883402

Saturday 9 September Dorset Historic Churches RideAnna Butler 01305 260004

Sunday 17 September Meningitis Sponsored RideThe present organiser is retiring after 17 years and raising over £60,000. New organiser is needed. Contact Malcolm Hurley 01202 882466

Sunday 24 September Dorset Giant 'Cycling4All' Cyclo-Sportive RideWimborne - Cerne Abbas - Blandford - Wimborne 8am-4pm. Marshals needed and riders invited! Gerrish Gray, DCDG 01202 849144

Sunday 1 OctoberWimborne Ride. As 21 May

Sunday 12 NovemberWimborne Ride. As 21 May

Saturdays. Burley & back for beginners. Meet 8.45am Pioneer Store near Fountain Roundabout A35 Christchurch or 9am at The Oak, Burton.No one abandoned. Experienced cyclists can fix minor faults. Under 18s to come with responsible adult. This is not an organised ride. You ride at own risk. Visit http://christchurchbc.mysite.wanadoo-members.co.uk/index.jhtml Wednesday evenings summer Sundays monthly all year DCN Purbeck FreewheelersFamily cycle rides John Thraves 01929 554550 or 07780 697424

Saturday SauntersWest Dorset CTC Every 2 weeks, start alternates between Weymouth (RSPB hut, Swannery Car Park) and Dorchester (Top o'Town cafe). 10.15 for 10.30 start. About 25 leisurely miles with pub/cafe/picnic lunch. Quiet lanes, no one gets left behind.Gail 01305 261345 or www.wessexctc.org/

COGS - Salisbury Cycling Campaign Monthly rides 11 am from Salisbury Leisure Centre 20-25 miles including lunch stop. Please bring lights in case of unforeseen delays COGS : 01722 325608

ADD YOUR CYCLING EVENT here and on our web site FREE

Contact Chairman DCN

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In April 2004, cycle training for children at school (the Cycle Proficiency Scheme) came to an end. It was taken forward by the county’s 15 Leisure Centres (Bournemouth and Poole have their own schemes) under the management of the Road Safety Team who consider that the quality of training has improved, and that course monitoring has been made easier.

In 2003-4, 2,400 children were trained. Road Safety Officers tell us that this was fewer than in previous years, but in the first year of the new scheme, the number trained dropped to only 1,449 and it seems that this will fall further. Yet the number of children aged 8 to 12 in Dorset (excluding Bournemouth and Poole) is estimated at 19,400.

At a meeting in January at County Hall, called to discuss the new National Training Standard, Robert Smith, Road Safety Team Leaders and his staff addressed Leisure Centre managers. Most had attended but not all. Also present were myself and representatives of North Dorset Primary Care Trust.

As well as learning about the new standards, we looked at causes of the low level of training and sought solutions. We agreed that many parents did not know training was available. But while some Leisure Centre managers said they could respond to the potential demand, few are already training more than the average centre. Some are doing considerable outreach work, though others said they lacked the staff and money to supply cycle training on top of their other commitments.

To address the staffing problem, it was suggested they could consider the use of volunteer trainers as the old scheme used to do. It was pointed out that DCN and CTC might be able to use their networks to search for potential volunteers. To increase awareness of training availability, I pointed out that DCN already advertises it in this newsletter and on our web site and offered to help further in this direction if possible.

DCN hopes that Leisure Centres will include more cycle training as a regular part of their programmes. There can be few things as important both for children and adults. The ability to cycle correctly can be a skill that stays with someone for life, giving an alternative means of travel which is efficient, cheap and healthy.

We hope that members reading this will feel that they, or someone they know, could offer help by becoming a registered cycle instructor. An individual’s commitment would not need to be very great, but it would be putting back something of great value into the future of our communities.

Please let me know, without any obligation, if you would like to find out more about becoming a cycle instructor and I will put you in touch with the Road Safety Team.

Michael Evans

Cycle Training in DorsetA Call for Instructors

Ferry good value

We heard in February that cyclists were able to book an overnight ferry from Portsmouth to Le Havre with a reclining seat for only £9.90 including the bike (one way). The company that has taken over this route from P&O is LD Lines. Their daily service leaves Portsmouth at 2300 arriving in Le Havre at 0730 and leaves Le Havre at 1700 arriving Portsmouth at 2130.

To book visit www.ldline.co.uk or ring 0870 420 1267

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BournemouthDCN contact: Ann Davis

Cycling Safety for Foreign Students - an update

from David Jones, DirectorETC International College, Bournemouth

01202 559044 www.etc-inter.netFollowing Michael Evans’s visit to the college, the local police gave a safe cycling presentation and workshop for our students. It proved very helpful and was constructive in breaking down students’ anxieties about the police. It showed that they are people too! With our help, the police hope to be able to produce a multi-language leaflet for distribution to language schools. The leaflet will include relevant parts of the Highway Code.I have told other schools about our initiative, and hope it will increase the safety of foreign students and other road users.

St Martin’s HouseBed & Breakfast Accommodation

White Cliff Mill Street, BLANDFORD FORUM, Dorset

DT11 7BP 01258 451245

[email protected]

Located in the town of Blandford Forum, with its fine Georgian architecture,

St Martin's House offers delightfully light, spacious accommodation, combining classic period

features with warmth and comfort. Easy walk to Blandford town centre.

Secure, lockable, undercover storage for bicycles.

Visit our web site for full detailswww.stmartinshouse.co.uk

POLICE REPORTby David Lawrence, Dorset Police Traffic Dept

As you can see from the above article, Dorset Police are trying to tackle the problem of foreign students having accidents on their cycles. On a cold February morning I dressed as a sensible cyclist and cycled around Bournemouth town centre and the Charminster area. Later, in the dark, we later did some filming which we made into a DVD about safe cycling which we showed to the students. They were also given a quiz on road signs and most did very well. Hopefully this is something that can be developed and all the language schools will be visited in due course. Thanks to DCN for bringing language schools and the police together to improve cycling safety. Over the dark winter months, Dorset Police have been trying to tackle the problem of cyclists with no lights and preventing language students being involved in accidents on bikes: In a trial scheme cyclists at night without lights will get a £30 Fixed Penalty Ticket with a notice saying the ticket will be discontinued if the cyclist produces a receipt to the police to prove they have bought lights, high visibility wear and /or a helmet. The scheme has been successful with over half of all tickets cancelled because cyclists have bought the required items. The scheme may be introduced across the whole county in due course.

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The Local Transport Plan Improvements Programme has now been agreed with Councillors. The good news is that there are a fair number of cycling related schemes and the whispers about DCC getting its cycle specific budget reinstalled have been confirmed with £40,000 being allocated for "developmental" work. As well as named schemes there are also a lot that positively affect cycling in terms of lowering speed or making town centres more pedestrian and cycle friendly. The big one for Dorset is the Weymouth Relief Road. Whatever your views on road building this particular project would, I believe, improve the Dorchester to Weymouth corridor for cyclists by providing purpose built routes and freeing up the existing carriageway. In conjunction with this and the Olympics being partly stationed in the area, DCC are

County Council Newsby Andrew Bradley, Cycling Officer and Project Engineer

Traffic Management, Environmental Services

also perusing the link from the Rodway Trail along Beach Road to Portland.

This is a sensitive area in terms of ecology and discussions will have to be reopened with English Nature and landowners.

A CRAZY CYCLE LANE

Source: Warrington Cycle Campaign(see page 21)

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Beryl's B & B

Attractive Victorian house on the outskirts of Wareham

and the Isle of Purbeck with its beautiful views, places to visit

and the Jurassic CoastEn suite rooms, parking, children

welcome, open all year. Sorry no pets. Cycle storage.

Tel 01929 550138Mobile 07860 503944

Email [email protected]

Cycling on the Sea Frontin Bournemouth & Poole

The difference in times in the two adjoining boroughs when cycling on the prom is not allowed continues to be seen not only as illogical but as “daft” according to many DCN members, and from what we hear, by some councillors in both towns.Here are the rules in case you need them for reference; they can also be found on the Area Cycling Map available from Councils and Tourist Information Centres.

Bournemouth: No cycling between July and August 10am and 6pm

Poole: No cycling between mid June and mid September 10am to 7pm

The position at the end of March was that there have been discussions but there are no plans at present to amend these restrictions in either borough.

Sherbornereport from David Greening

The Westland BUG (Bicycle User Group) has met Somerset CC's Planning Liaison Officer Mike Bellamy, responsible for developing a Yeovil Cycle Map and other work including the installation of pedestrian controlled crossings and advance stop lines at the junction of Preston Rd. and Larkhill Rd in Yeovil. We told him our thoughts about suitable shared footpaths and links via NCN26 from Yeovil to Sherborne. We are also concerned that the route is not adequately signed within Sherborne. Could this be because SCC has a dedicated Cycling Team whereas cycling is only part of one Dorset transport officer's job? Somerset is promoting cycling by offering employers a free 'Repair and Ride' service to employees with the aim of keeping cycles roadworthy and get bikes lying in sheds out on to the roads. Some local companies have taken up this offer.

CYCLISTS WELCOME!

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Greenwood Guest House

Small friendly B&B

in a quiet road (some off road

parking)

Lockable garage for bicyclesEasy level walking distance to

beach and town centreConveniently located for railway station (mainline to London) and Condor Ferry

(to the Channel Islands)Open All Year

1 Holland Road, Weymouth, DT4 0ALTel: 01305 775626

www.greenwoodguesthouse.co.ukE-mail [email protected]

RALEIGH CENTRE

42 ST. MARY ST, WEYMOUTH 01305 781831

NEW AND USED BICYCLESCYCLE SALES

SPARES, REPAIRSSERVICING ANDACCESSORIES

Dear MichaelYou've probably had loads of responses to Councillor Burton's statement (Newsletter 52 p.18) in a similar vein to this, but here goes:In years of riding the lanes of Dorset, not once have I been menaced by a speeding cyclist. But I've lost count of the number of cars which havesqueezed past me, failing to slow down. These country lanes, designed for the horse and cart - cars are the problem, not bicycles.Cars are faster and heavier than bikes, and if they hit you, far more lethal. Unlike cyclists, their drivers are cocooned from reality, distracted by the radio, mobile phone and with no real sense of their true speed. I'm sure Councillor Burton is a careful, considerate driver, but not everyone is.Yours, Peter Henshaw A2B Magazine, Castle Cary(Actually Peter, yours is the only reply so far, and I have sent it for forwarding to Cllr Burton so that he can see the other point of view.)

NEWS FROM EUROPE

NetherlandsOver the next 5 years Amsterdam will spend €100 million to help cyclists and prevent an increase in motorized traffic. The aim is to achieve 37% of all intra-city movements by bike and continue the improvements of the past 20 years, with the number of serious injuries among cyclists down by 35% and bike use up 20%.

Czech RepublicOn 12 January Jan Bouchal, age 30, Director of the Prague cycling advocacy group Ozivení died of injuries sustained when he was hit by a car while cycling a few days before. He advocated reduced car use and increased cycling, walking, and public transport. He supported Prague's Critical Mass and collaborated with World Carfree Network on car free days. His death is said to be a serious loss for the city which is in the grip of rampant motorization.

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Portland Harbour for the Sailing Olympics of 2012The campaign to extend the Rodwell Trail pedestrian and cycleway which uses the former railway line from near Weymouth Town Centre to Ferry Bridge, the entry point to the Isle of Portland, gathers momentum. DCN and CTC have been pressing for extension of the route including a further section of the former railway. This would extend the route to Osprey Quay, the National Sailing Centre and venue for the Sailing Olympics, where it would link with a new waterfront cycleway. This, together with the Rodwell Trail, would form part of National Cycle Network Route 26. Sustrans ask for support to be given to the proposals by letters to Mr J. Peake,

Chairman, Dorset County Council, County Hall, Dorchester, DT1 1XJ and Mr Tom Grainger, Chief Executive, Weymouth and Portland Borough Council, Council Offices, Weymouth, DT4 8TA.

In praise of Old BikesWhy do so many nearly new children's bikes appear at refuse sites? To Daniel Kelly, aged nearly 4, the vast expanse of Weymouth sands at low tide on a winter's day must have seemed like the edge of a desert. To get him cycling without stabilisers we had looked for a second-hand Like-a-Bike but our neighbour had previously given us a little Emmelle of about 20 years age which, first with stabilisers and then without, had already got

his 2 older cousins cycling. So it has been down to the beach this time. We wouldn't of course have treated a newer bike like this! He was pedalling with confidence in no time. The Rodwell Trail has also been tried out as have some local open spaces. Our only concern was the lack of consideration of some dog owners. (continued on next page)

Weymouth & Portlandcontact: Mike Kelly

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I am not advocating cycling on the sands other than by infants and then probably only in winter. I welcome the Borough Council's intention to relax the ban on cycling on the Esplanade (at a time to be identified cycling will be allowed on the Preston - Sluice Gardens section all year and on the southern section out of season). Given the hazards of negotiating between the Jubilee Clock junction and the Sluice Gardens or the Preston Beach Road cycleway the entitlement to cycle on the Esplanade at any time of the year needs to be extended to the Jubilee Clock. A "road train" is allowed on this section. The Council will no doubt monitor how the

proposed relaxation works. Provided that cyclists are responsible I have no doubt that it will allow DCN to make a case for extension of cycling to The Jubilee Clock from where cyclists can access the Town Centre and Harbourside.Daniel has made us fitter this winter thanks to the running to keep up with him. I wish more people would recognise that an old bike can have its uses. Finally, if anybody is interested in acting as Chairman or Secretary of the Weymouth and Portland Branch I would be pleased to hear from them.

Weymouth & Portlandcontinued from previous page

Carrying loads on a bike : a few safety tipsDO use panniers, baskets and trailers.DON’T ride with loads on handlebars.AVOID cycling with a heavy load on your back.Try a combination of rear panniers, with small or medium low front panniers and a small handlebar bag. The heavier the object, the lower it should be placed for a low centre of gravity.

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GROVE LODGE B & B WIMBORNE

DCN members Ruth and Richard Bush

offer a warm, friendly welcome to their family home, with its quiet, peaceful garden.

A few minutes level walk from the town centre.Off road parking, lockable garage for bikes, drying facilities. Maps, routes and useful information from

cyclists for cyclists! Situated opposite Samways cycle shop for all your cycling needs.

Open all year . Children welcome. 2,Grove Road, Wimborne BH21 1BW

01202 882697www.grovelodgewimborne.come-mail [email protected]

Company of Cyclists

In the last issue members will have seen this company’s leaflet, and some have responded to it. Here is a bit more information about them, taken from their interesting web site.

Our aim is simple: to promote cycling, in all its varieties, for leisure, transport, health, happiness and the environment. We work for local authorities, health promotion services, regeneration agencies, businesses, schools, universities and the leisure industry. We are a social enterprise company owned by over 180 cyclists. Our ‘box of tools’ includes:

Get Cycling. Bike try-out roadshows for city centres, schools, leisure centres, universities, public events and festivals. From single days to month-long tours.

BikeWorks support systems for the workplace, including roadshow, commuter cycling training, publications, PR support and the ‘Cycle 50% Club’.

Green-Link zero-emission deliveries: a proven, cost-saving service designed around the specific daily distribution needs of local authorities. It also brings superb and well-deserved PR.

The Vitality Challenge. An exercise and diet initiative for children and their families, involving a specialised schools roadshow, to launch a home-based challenge with prizes.

Publishing, IT and Consultancy services. We provided our clients big and small with customised cycle publications, web sites and consultancy services.

Cycle Training. CoC Training is a new division within Company of Cyclists, working to the new National Cycle Training Standard.We aim for carbon-neutrality and subscribe to a carbon-offset scheme.

Contact: Unit 11, Acaster Estate, Acaster Malbis, York, YO23 2TX.. Tel: 01904 778080. Email: [email protected] Web: www.companyofcyclists.com

Dorset Bike Ridefor Macmillan Cancer Relief

from Peter Smith-NichollsThis annual ride will be on Sunday 2 July this year. Last year we reported that £20,000 had so far been raised on these rides, and we are delighted to report that this figure has now increased to £38,225 If you haven’t done the ride before, do try it this year! There are short and long distances to do at your own pace. See the diary on page 3 for details, and contact me for an entry form. It’s a great way to have fun and help those suffering from cancer.

THE BUDGETIn the April Budget the Cycle to Work tax-free bike buying scheme survived and the Chancellor created a zero rate of Vehicle Excise Duty for cars with the lowest emissions. Now that some cars will no longer pay any tax, the old chestnut that cyclists should do so has been laid to rest.

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E-mail [email protected] 10% discount for DCN members

WimborneContact: Michael Evans

SAFE CYCLE ACCESS TO KINGSTON LACY

In January I walked with one of the wardens on a proposed route, which would enter the estate beside Pamphill Village Hall and emerge on a track parallel with the main road. Given a reasonably firm surface, which I agree should blend well with the natural surroundings, the route appeared acceptable even if at one stage cyclists might have to walk their bikes for a short distance.

However, it is disappointing not to be able to report any progress since then. The National Trust management at Kingston Lacy still assure me that they are committed to providing a safe cycle route, but there appear to be difficulties they have to overcome and no date can be given, though a year ago they seemed certain it would be in by this spring.

CYCLE TRAININGat

Queen Elizabeth Leisure Centre

As mentioned in the article about cycle training on page 4, steps are being taken to increase cycle training. At QE, this will depend on finding an additional instructor, says Neil Fitch of the DCC Road Safety Team. He would welcome enquiries from DCN members who might be prepared to help there. No previous experience of instruction is needed, as there is training available for instructors. If you think you might be able to help, please contact Neil Fitch on 01305 221710 as soon as possible.

CYCLE RIDESOur monthly gentle rides from Wimborne

(2-3 hours with plenty of stops) began again in March. Why not join us? See dates on page 3.

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PEDAL BACK THE YEARS LEADERS WANTED

by Peter Gibbs Public Health Promoter for Physical Activity,

North Dorset Primary Care Trust

A selection of short rides are being planned across North Dorset linked to the North Dorset Cycleway to encourage new and returning cyclists to be more active. This will be similar to the Walking the Way to Health project.

The areas will be Blandford, Sturminster Newton, Gillingham, Marnhull, Stalbridge and Sixpenny Handley.

Two support riders are required to lead the rides, one at the front and back so that no-one is left behind, or feel they are holding people up.

Support riders should be able to carry out minor mechanical repairs and have skills in Emergency Management and basic Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation. Training will be arranged to cover these skills.

It is envisaged to offer one ride a week according to the capacity available. The times, days, and venues to be confirmed in consultation with the support riders. For further information please contact me on 01305 361338 or e-mail [email protected]

The Crown at Winterborne Stickland

(formerly The Shire Horse)17th Century thatched traditional family run

pubNo background music, pool or amusement

machines Just a warm & friendly atmosphere,

with a log fire when the weather is cold! A lovely garden to relax in when the weather

is fine!

Landlord David Heath extends a special welcome

to cyclists, singly or in groups

Featured in the CAMRA Good Beer Guide 2005

Good Home Cooked Food served lunchtimes and evenings

(Please note: The Crown is closed Monday lunchtimes, except for Bank Holidays)

The Inglenook Bar is now reserved for non-smokers.

Ringwood Ales and wide selection of

WATCH OUT AT THE STATION!

The DfT has found that theft or damage to bicycles at rail stations has increased by around a third over the six years 1999-2005. Theft from motor vehicles has gone down almost 50%, and cycle theft and damage is now the most significant reported crime at stations.

In February we attended a seminar by the Bristol Green Party. The day was constructive and inspiring. DCN members will be interested to know that medical glorification of the bike and cycling took precedence in Dr Lawson's health workshop. We worried he would never move off the topic of cycling's contribution to health.Exercise on a bike beneficially affects incidence of cardiovascular heart disease, stroke, osteoporosis, diabetes, mellitus, cancer, loss of muscle mass, stress-related illness and untimely death. Cycling and brisk walking greatly reduce your likelihood of falling prey to the above, and they are cheap if not free. A heart patient whom he had recommended to cycle to improve his well-being had returned after one ride later alarmed by his maiden encounter with lorry wheels. Dr Lawson quoted the redoubtable Meyer Hillman: “Though indeed you might be felled in your prime on the highway by a megaton of lorry, in actual fact this fate is twenty times less likely than dying early from the deleterious effects of not cycling.”

IT’S GOOD FOR YOU!report by Susy and Cliff Ellis, DCN Wimborne

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Mrs T A O’Hare BA Dip LGSolicitor

4 Cobbs Road, Colehill, Wimborne BH21 2RL

Domestic & Commercial ConveyancingWills & Probate

Appointments to suit youThorough, efficient and friendly service

Ring, Fax or E-mail for a quotetel: 01202 840153fax: 01202 841180

E-mail: [email protected]: www.conveyancing-solicitor.co.uk

In February, just too late for our last newsletter, the Driving Standards Agency invited comments on proposed amendments to The HighwayCode. The deadline is 10 May so if you were not already aware, you might still have time to put your views.

They should be sent to Publications Department, Driving Standards Agency, The Training Centre, Harrowden Lane, Cardington, Bedford MK44 3ST, and marked for the attention of Karen Lees. They can also be made online at www.dsa.gov.uk/highwaycode

Some pointers for your attention.Rule 1 says that although failure to comply with the other rules of the Code will not, in itself cause a person to be prosecuted, the Highway Code may be used in proceedings to establish liability". We need to read this in conjunction with Rules 56 and 58.

Rule 56: "You should wear: A cycle helmet . . . light coloured or fluorescent clothing . . . reflective clothing . . . in the dark"Rule 58: "Use cycle routes when practicable and cycle facilities ... where they are provided"

It appears that cyclists could be held liable for an accident which happened when they were not conforming to these rules. This could be exploited by insurance companies as an excuse to reduce the compensation they would pay if a motorist hits such a cyclist. Yet we know that helmets do not give much protection if a car hits you, and that some cycle tracks are poorly designed and cyclists may have sound reasons for not using them (see articles on page 21)If these rules are confirmed, it could open the way for driver's insurance companies to seek to reduce the damages for any cyclists injured by their clients on the basis that the cyclist's failure to accord with Highway Code advice on these points represented contributory negligence.

You will wish to make up your own mind on whether this is desirable, but it could be interpreted as compulsion by the back door and as placing responsibility on cyclists rather than on motorists to avoid hitting anyone. If you think this way, then this is your chance to suggest changes to the rules.

A further point is that there is a contradiction between the proposed amended Highway Code and the advice given to cyclists in the National Standard Cycle Training scheme which is based on John Franklin's book Cyclecraft, which is considered by the National Standard for Cycle Training Guidelines as a source of best practice information. This is supported by RoSPA guidelines and the Bamford-Carnegie Cycle Training Instructor's Manual. Among other things these tell people to cycle assertively, to take the middle of the lane at junctions, whencycling past parked cars, when riding past side roads and passing queues of drivers in cars

continued on page 20

The New Highway CodePLACING GREATER RESPONSIBILITY ON CYCLISTS?

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DYLANS RESTAURANTat the Courtyard Centre

Soli & Tracy welcome cyclistsfor breakfast, lunch or snacks

Open 7 days 9.30 to 5pmCottage Farm, Huntinck Road

Lytchett Minster BH16 6BA 01202 631030

www.thecourtyardcraftcentre.co.uk

Follow the brown tourist sign on the A350 just north of Upton

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CYCLISTS LUNCH at DYLANS RESTAURANTSaturday 24 June from 12 noon£1 off main course, £1 off dessert

for DCN membersTo ask what’s on the menu please ring Dylans.

The discount does not apply to snack mealsTo book, please send £1 deposit per person to Chairman DCN by 17 June, payable to DCN (refundable only if you cancel with over 7 days notice or if the event has to be cancelled).

To Chairman DCN, (address page 2)

Please book me _______ placesI enclose cheque for £ ___payable to DCN

Names & address

PhoneE-mail

Approx. time of arrival 12.00 12.30 1.00 1.30

SPIT NEWSFollowing the contract with the National Trust, the Studland and Purbeck Integrated Transport Group (SPIT) cycle group has been reformed, with the intention of carrying on with the good work completed by the cycle group. The group includes representatives from cycling organisations, Rights of Way, Dorset County Council and Purbeck District Council. It met on 25 January with the aim of showing where we are at present with cycling issues in the Purbeck area and to formulate ideas and plans for the future of cycling in the

Purbecks. In cycling circles the area is considered to be a “gem” but there is very little in support and facilities.

POOLE HARBOUR WALKING & CYCLING TRAILLack of support for this project continues to give concern, in particular the failure to obtain match funding from the Heritage Committee for a feasibility study in conjunction with Poole Borough Council. A working group has been formed and it is hoped that this issue will be raised again. Meanwhile Poole BC are pressing on in an

endeavour to engage in a scoping study.

CARNIVAL RIDEDuring Swanage Carnival Week (29 July to 5 August)(visit www.swanagecarnival.com/) a bike ride will cover a circular route from Swanage – Corfe Castle – Swanage commencing and finishing on the Sea Front. I hope many people will take part including visitors.

REGULAR RIDESFind out about summer rides of the

Purbeck Freewheelers on page 3 and on the DCN Website.

Purbeckfrom John Thraves, DCN Purbeck & Sustrans Liaison Ranger

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Hello to all DCN members and particularly those in

Christchurch. Until recently I was involved in the London Cy-cling Campaign, and now that I live in Christchurch I’m happy to be representing you in this area. One of the first things to do was to call a meeting in order to get to know local cyclists and learn some of the issues. Seven of us met on 23 February and discussed several issues.

Cycle parking was felt to be needed at the cor-ner of Wick Lane/Church St, Saufland’s Place, the library and medical centre, Lymington Road, Wick Lane Car Park, Saxon Square car park and Druitt Hall car park. Bob Baker of Christchurch Council has said there would be money for new cycle parking facilities in April 2006.

On-road cycle lanesPainted cycle ways don’t protect cyclists from motorists but they do give cyclists and motorists a sense that cyclists have a right to be there. They should be made safer when funding becomes available by separating cycle path with interrupted kerb (as in Netherlands - see www.tsa.govt.nz/road-user-safety/walking-and-cycling/cycle-network/chapter5.htlm ).

Routes. We felt improvements were needed on the routes from Marlowe Drive to Fairmile and Bargates; Outskirts of Christchurch to the town centre; Staple Cross crossing over bypass (virtually impossible to use with child trailer, child seat, or for disabled); Somerford Road which is currently 40mph and could be 30mph; and Christchurch to Bournemouth. Some of these routes are mentioned in the Local Transport Plan.

RoundaboutsPurewell CrossWimborne type roundabout solution proposed, whereby cyclists are directed using painted cycle ways to the middle of the roundabout

ChristchurchDCN contact: Lucy Marstrand

rather than the outer circle edge where they are most at risk.Fountain Way The underpass is awkward for cyclists to get safely across. They could be directed to the bus route, going north to south, with push-button cycle traffic lights. Going south to north, the Wimborne solution would make things safer.

Crossing from Stony Lane south to Stony Lane north: Thought to be completely impenetrable: lights considered best solution for pedestrians and cyclists, though highly unlikely to be agreedSainsbury’s RoundaboutLights or zebra or island with zebra crossing would enable people to cross at this point.

Traffic LightsIt was agreed that Advanced Stop Lines (ASL’s) with a filter lane should be painted at all traffic lights in Christchurch.

Bournemouth/Christchurch cycle map:This could contain more information, all the roads marked on, distinguishing between routes which exist and those due to be built (with the date when they will be completed. It was suggested that councils be shown the London cycle maps.

It was suggested that Bob Baker be invited to cycle round the local area with me to help clarify what could be done and where, and see the problems an everyday cyclist with a child encounters. I have met parents who use trailers or child seats or cycle with kids, but are deterred by lack of cycle provision and feel vulnerable and unsafe on Christchurch roads. The elderly face similar problems.

I will report whether we have made progress on these issues in future newsletters.

Meanwhile I would welcome the support of other cyclists in the Christchurch area.

Please don’t hesitate to get in touch. My details are on page 2.

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ORDER FORM FOR HI-VIS WAISTCOAT

To Jonathan Aris, Tower Supplies, 10 Yarrow Road, Poole BH12 4TSI wish to order Hi-Vis waistcoat model C15.SHV06/DCN

Quantity M¨ L¨ XL ¨ XXL¨I enclose cheque for £________ payable to TOWER SUPPLIES

(£3 per garment including p & p)Name:Address: Phone:

Alternatively you can collect for only £2.50 by making an appointment with Jonathan Aris on 01202 718000

"

PooleContact: Bob FrewBranch meeting

On 10 March 11 members met and discussed the Local Transport Plan. We were disappointed with its cycling content and the lower targets for increasing cycling were regretted. We acknowledged the increase in cycle routes and parking but thought that signing could be improved and that the Gravel Hill cycle path should be extended to Merley. CLAG (Cyclists Liaison Advisory Group) will continue encouraging proper provision for cyclists in new planning schemes.Branch Chairmanship. Bob Frew said he was ready to stand down as Poole representative, but this was deferred till after the DCN AGM on 17 June. Other matters discussed were the revision of the Highway Code, irresponsible behaviour by cyclists (roundly condemned), and the cost of taking a bicycle on the Sandbanks ferry. The meeting closed at 9.15.p.m.

Bike Week EventA Family Cycle Ride on Saturday 24 June will leave Baiter Slipway car park at 10a.m. and end at Upton House Country Park (Peacock Tea Rooms). Participants will receive a voucher for refreshments at Upton Park. Children must be accompanied by a responsible adult. To take part contact Sally Funnell (details page 22)

A SAD GOODBYEWe are very sorry to learn that Shepherds

Cycles of Parkstone are closing down. We thank them for their support of DCN and the excellent

service they have given to cyclists generally over many years. We wish John and Christine

good luck for the future.

STOP AT RED by John Pritchard

Motorists “see red” when they see cyclists going through red lights, confirming their view that cyclists are a menace who ought to be licensed. Recently, parents at a London school campaigned to stop cyclists running a red light near the school where four children had recently been knocked over by cyclists. The action was a huge success, and it was supported by the local cycling campaign, the police and the local MP Kate Hoey. The media coverage caused the owner of Cycle Heaven bike shop in York to get the backing of the Bicycle Association and the Association of Cycle Traders for a Stop at Red movement. DCN members can visit www.stopatred.org to make a pledge to stop at red. Our Chairman and I have already done so. Visit www.stopatred.org and join the pledge!

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The Trailway is set to gain real momentum this year, due to cash injections from Dorset County Council and North Dorset District Council. A Trailway is a 3 metre wide path with access to walkers, cyclists, horse riders and the less able. It has a hard wearing all-weather surface so that it can be used as a genuine alternative transport route throughout the year.The Somerset and Dorset Old Railway Line Old Railway provides an ideal route for such a Trailway as it links many of North Dorset's towns and villages.

The two local authorities which own sections of this line, the Countryside Service and local volunteers have battled with the ever encroaching vegetation to maintain these sections as footpaths as well as possible.However, to become a Trailway these sections have to be joined together. This can be difficult as many sections of the line are in private ownership. The whole line also needs resurfacing to bring it up to a standard for use by bicycles, push chairs, wheel chairs and horses. The great beauty of Trailways is that they are inherently inclusive to all sections of society. They can be used as Safe Routes to School, traffic free commuter routes, a recreational facility for young and old and encourage Green Tourism to the area by cyclists, horse riders and ramblers.

Other areas of the South West already have long distance Trailways such as the Tarka Trail in Devon and the Camel Trail in Cornwall. These

have proved immensely popular with locals and visitors alike and have generated millions of pounds to the local economy.

Dorset County Council and North Dorset District Council have teamed up to link together the communities of Spetisbury, Charlton Marshall and Blandford as the first stage of a North Dorset Trailway. The route will then hopefully go on to join up to Durweston, Stourpaine, Shillingstone, Sturminster Newton, Stalbridge and ultimately off into Somerset.

The community is very much involved in this project and has set up a North Dorset Trailway Action Group. They are working with the local authorities to progress the route and help the Countryside Rangers in practical tasks to maintain and improve the sections which are already open for public use. It is hoped that this partnership approach between local authorities, the public and eventually private industry will provide a gateway to the North Dorset countryside which is second to none.

We need more volunteers to offer a few hours work on the Trailway. If you would like to offer your help please contact me on 01258 472441.

You can read about the Trailway at www.dorsetforyou.com/index.jsp?articleid=17078

and see photos on page 21

North Dorset Trailwayby Giles Nicholson, North Dorset Ranger

Full steam ahead !

waiting at lights on the right to get towards the front, rather than undertake on the left. In short, cyclists are expected to use their experience and local knowledge to decide which part of the road to cycle on in every circumstance. The new rule limits this discretion which other road users have.There are many other proposed changes to the rules which you may wish to comment on either as pedestrians, horse riders or motorists.

The New Highway Code(continued from page 16 )

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North Dorset Trailway (continued from page 20)

Before . . . . . . and after

and what it will be like later, we hope

The photos show before and after shots of the 160 metres of old railway line at Fiddleford that were cleared of bramble and scrub to a width of 5 metres, by 45 volunteers on Saturday 4 February. This made a clear path on the eastern side of the Stour ready for the 75 metre 200k bridge (funded by Liveability) to be installed in September..

Bicycle BitsValue of cycle lanesA study by Warrington Cycle Campaign has found that some cycle lanes reduce the road space available to cyclists, and make conditions significantly worse for them. This seems counter-intuitive, but possible explanations are:1. Drivers may assume that a cycle lane provides adequate space for cyclists and drive according to lane markings rather than relative to the position of the cyclist.2. Drivers take less care when overtaking if the vehicle they are overtaking is in a separate lane.3. A cycle lane on the other side of the road forces oncoming vehicles nearer to the centre, reducing space for overtaking vehicles to move to the right.The report recommends:• Sub-standard cycle lanes should not be installed.• All cycle lanes should be reviewed and narrow ones widened or removed.• Further studies should try and discover how wide cycle lanes need to be in order to benefit cyclists.www.warringtoncyclecampaign.co.uk/ 01925 812128 4 Parkfield Lane, Fearnhead, Warrington

Cost of road injuriesAccording to the Dept for Transport, the average road death costs £1.38 million, a serious injury over £155,000 and a slight injury nearly £12,000. The total cost of all road injuries in 2004 was costed at almost £13 billion. www.dft.gov.uk/

HelmetsAnother study concludes that “there is no evidence that cycle helmets reduce the overall cyclist injury burden in the UK”. The author puts forward possibilities underlying this conclusion. The report is entitled “Cycle helmets and road casualties in the UK” by P J Hewson in “Traffic Injury Prevention” 2005;6(2): 127-134, published by Taylor & Francis Inc., 325 Chestnut Street, Suite 800, Philadelphia, PA19106 www.tandf.co.uk/journals/titles/15389588.html

Encouragement for cycling in LondonTransport for London is offering incentives to employers to help raise cycling levels. Companies can each receive up to £1,000 to help with installing showers and lockers, plus free cycle stands and trade price bikes for pool bike facilities. (continued on next page)

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Cycle TrainingDorset County Council Phase 1 (Year 3 and above, off road) Phase 2 (Year 5 and above, on road) To enquire about training for young people, contact your local Leisure Centre For phone numbers visit www.dcn.org.uk or get a leaflet from 01305 224558 or [email protected]

Bournemouth Claire Elkins Transport Group, Development Services, Town Hall Annexe, St Stephen's Road, Bournemouth BH2 6EA 01202 454636

PooleSally Funnell 01202 262066 Phase I and II and individual adult scheme

Moors ValleyCycling for Beginners, the More Confident and Further Afield, including picnic and bacon butty rides! Cycle hire available. Booking essential.Brochure available on request.Moors Valley Country Park, Horton Road, Ashley Heath, Ringwood, Hants, BH24 2ET 01425 470721

Bicycle Bitscontinued from previous page

Lower speed better than lights during daylightThe European Cyclists Federation says there is no evidence that road safety is increased by cars and lorries showing lights in the daytime. On the contrary they can confuse other road users by masking indicator lights and “contribute to visual over-stimulation.” The ECF states that lower vehicle speeds and prohibiting alcohol when driving would bring about greater road safety.

An enlightened approachIn Cambridge, cyclists who do not use lights at night could escape a warning or a summons by buying lights within 14 days of being stopped by police under a scheme that was due to be tried out for a month earlier this year. It will be extended if it has proved successful. (see police report on page 5)

Speed as cause of crashesAccording to the answer to a parliamentary question, 34% of all fatal crashes and 13% of all crashes in 2004 were due to excess speed.

Mental Speed BumpsThis is the title of a book aimed at those who do not see themselves as activists but would appreciate a fun way to reduce car use. “Mental Speed Bumps” costs £12.50 from Transport 2000, 12-18 Hoxton St, London N1 6NG 020 7613 7720

Speed courses “are a failure” says TRLThe Transport Research Lab says that motorists who took a driver improvement course as an alternative to prosecution did not drive better afterwards, and many re-offended in greater numbers than those who didn’t do a course.

Bike Week 17-25 JuneThis provides an opportunity for DCN branches and individual members to organise an event that will encourage more people to cycle. If you do, you should register it with Bike Week HQ. Registration gives you free insurance cover and useful advice about organising an event.

Bike Week HQ, 10 South Pallant, Chichester PO19 1SU

Phone 0845 612 0661 (local rate) or 01243 527444

E-mail [email protected]

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DISCOUNTS FOR DCN MEMBERSThe cycle shops below offer discounts on production of a current DCN membership card.

Please ask at the shop for details. Bikes (Branksome), 431-433 Poole Road, Branksome, Poole BH12 1DF 01202 769202 fax 762377 Revolutions, 21 West Street, Bridport 01308 420586Cycle Experience Brookley Road, Brockenhurst 01590 624204 and Barrack Road Christchurch 01202 486278Forest Leisure Cycling 1143-1145 Christchurch Road, Bournemouth 01202 424945 & Village Centre, Burley 01425 403584Horswills, 1 Ensbury Avenue, Ensbury Park, Bournemouth BH10 4HE 01202 512761 fax 514234 Lawsons Cycles, 29 Somerford Road, Christchurch, BH23 3PF tel & fax 01202 486633 On Yer Bike, 88 Charminster Road, Charminster, Bournemouth BH8 8US 01202 315855 fax 319533Primera Sport, 244-248 Charminster Road, Charminster, Bournemouth, BH8 9RR 01202 775588 fax 775599l Samways & Son, 70 Leigh Road, Wimborne BH21 1AJ 01202 882960 Raleigh Cycle Centre, 42 St Mary Street, Weymouth DT4 8PU tel 01305 781831 fax 01305 767062Westham Cycles, 128 Abbotsbury Road, Weymouth, DT4 0JS 01305 776977 fax 775477 Xtreme, 111 Commercial Road, Lower Parkstone, Poole BH14 0JD 01202 741744 fax 749569

COUNCIL CYCLING OFFICERSPoole Borough CouncilSally Funnell 01202 262066

Bournemouth Borough CouncilNew cycle schemes Martin Dover 01202 451378 / 07881 908768 Safe Routes, Green Travel Plans Richard Barnes 01202 454645

Christchurch Borough Council Bob Baker 01202 495083

Dorset County Council Andrew Bradley 01305 224269 / 01305 224837

ROAD DEFECTSBournemouth 01202 451463Poole Potholes & overhanging vegetation 01202 262200 Litter and glass 01202 261700Christchurch 01202 495054Rest of Dorset 0800 232323 (CLARENCE)New Forest 0238 063388

NEW FOREST Route closures, safety advice 02380 284476 Camping information 02380 283771 Tourist Information 02380 282269

RAIL, BUS, FERRY INFORMATION0870 608 2608 www.traveline.org.uk

WHO’S YOUR MP? Visit www.upmystreet.com

TO REPORT DRINK-DRIVING, DRIVING WHILE DISQUALIFIED

AND OTHER ROAD CRIMECrimestoppers 0800 555 111

SMOKY COMMERCIAL VEHICLES01506 445216

SUSTRANS RANGERSPoole, Bournemouth, ChristchurchJohn Vuagniaux 01202 476404 [email protected]

Purbeck, East & North DorsetJohn Thraves 01929 554550 [email protected]

West Dorset, Weymouth & PortlandAnne Eccleston 01305 266632 [email protected]

North DorsetJude Hopkins 01747 830617 [email protected]

CAR SHARING 08700 111199 Mon-Fri 9-5www.carsharedorset.com

NATIONAL BLOOD SERVICEGive blood - 08457 711711 or

www.blood.co.uk

USEFUL CONTACTS

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SUBSCRIPTIONS £6.00 per household per year. Payable 1 Oct to the Membership Secretary.STANDING ORDERSThese help us to budget more efficiently and remove the need to remember to renew.Ask the Membership Secretary for a form.INDIVIDUAL/FAMILY MEMBERSHIPWrite to the Membership Secretary with your cheque and details of all cyclists in your household.

GROUP MEMBERSHIPDCN welcomes cycling clubs, Bicycle User Groups and similar associations as Group Members. Subscriptions depend on the number of members and the means of the group.POSTAL OR E-MAIL ADDRESS Please tell BOTH the Membership Secretary and the Chairman of any changes NOT ONLINE? We can download information for you. Just send an s.a.e. to the Chairman.

NEW MEMBERSWe warmly welcome the following new members

whose support adds weight to our efforts on behalf of all cyclists.

MEMBERSHIP INFORMATI0N

Commercial £56 p.a. full page approx 18cm x 12 cm

½ page £28 ; ¼ page £14 includes DCN web site entry

Members’ small advertsFREE

We would welcome a donation if you make a sale

The newsletter is compiled by the Chairman and published in February, May, August and November.Deadlines are 1st day of January, April, July and October. Send copy by e-mail or clearly typed

to Chairman DCN. Images in JPG please. Send s.a.e. for return of photos, cartoons and other artwork

ADVERTISINGEmail [email protected] or write to Chairman DCN

END NOTEReproduced from Cyclecraft* by John Franklin with the author’s permission

*published by the Stationery Office ISBN 0-11-702051-6

Mr & Mrs K Chambers WimborneMiss K Spurling & Mr R Hobbs SwanageMr & Mrs B Drew & family DorchesterMr A Dickson BournemouthDr & Mrs N Pearce & family Poole

Dr J Orrell WeymouthMr & Mrs S Marstrand ChristchurchMs E Fookes WimborneMr R Chapman FerndownMr & Mrs P Davenport & family Wimborne

BIKE WEEK 17 - 25 JUNE - Dorset Cyclists' Network

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Transcript of BIKE WEEK 17 - 25 JUNE - Dorset Cyclists' Network