Wiltshire Council has celebrated a major milestone after 50,000 children across the county completed its Bikeability cycle training programme.
The achievement highlights the long-term success of the council’s work helping children develop essential road safety skills and encouraging more families to choose healthy, sustainable ways to travel.
The milestone was marked at Aloeric Primary School in Melksham, where Leo – the 50,000th child to complete the training – was presented with a new bike by Councillor Martin Smith, Wiltshire Council Cabinet Member for Highways, alongside Bikeability Trust chief executive Emily Cherry.
Councillor Smith said, “Reaching 50,000 children trained through Bikeability in Wiltshire is a fantastic achievement and a real testament to the dedication and expertise of our instructors and support teams.
“Bikeability plays an important role in helping young people develop life-long skills, improve their confidence, and stay safe while cycling. It also supports Our Wiltshire Plan ambitions to improve road safety and encourage healthy, sustainable travel across Wiltshire.
“I’d also like to pay tribute to our team of 30 qualified Bikeability instructors, who do a fantastic job working closely with schools to provide high-quality, practical cycle training for pupils.”
Emily added, “Reaching 50,000 children trained in Wiltshire is a fantastic milestone and a testament to the commitment of the council, instructors and schools who make Bikeability possible.
“Giving children the skills and confidence to cycle safely and confidently on today’s roads is important not only for their independence, but for building healthier, more active communities.
“It’s inspiring to see the local impact of the programme, helping more young people discover the freedom and joy of cycling for everyday journeys.”
Pupils at the school also shared their experiences of the training programme.
Hugo said, “My favourite part was putting all the training into practice by leaving the school and going on the roads.”
Naylah added, “It was really fun. The instructors were kind and my mum trusts me now that I know how to be safe.”
Frankie said, “All of the instructors were really nice. I now ride my bike more safely and understand the rules of the road.”
Jasmine commented, “I am able to ride my bike more now and more confidently after finishing the course.”
Around 3,500 children take part in Bikeability training across Wiltshire each year, helping more young people gain the confidence and skills needed to cycle safely on today’s roads.
Find out more about Bikeability here.
