Healthy Living was the name of the game when Thurrock Council, the Davy Down Trust, Sustrans, Bike It and NHS South West Essex promoted sustainable transport, healthy living and access to open spaces in Thurrock.
The Bike and Hike the Mardyke (Sunday, 13 June) event invited local people to visit Davy Down and take part in healthy walks, guided bike rides through the Mardyke Valley, cycling obstacle courses, bike decoration and much more.
BMX Inertia provided regular cycle stunt shows while Rollapaluza and Magnificent Revolutions encouraged people to get on bikes and race on rollers or power everyday equipment by pedal power.
NHS South West Essex provided free health checks on the day and encouraged local people to take part in Nordic Walking and their regular Healthy Walk through Davy Down.
Gateway Cycling, Thurrock’s local cycling club, led guided bike rides through the Mardyke Valley and were joined by riders of all ages and abilities.
The event was officially opened by Neil Speight from the Thurrock Thames Gateway Corporation, Councillors Yash Gupta and Diana Hale from the Davy Down Trust.
Councillor Yash Gupta, Portfolio Holder for Environment, said: “It is very pleasing to have an event that is focused on encouraging local people to visit open spaces by walking, cycling and public transport.
“Reducing our carbon footprint is becoming increasingly important. It is vital that people are aware of the networks of walking, cycling and bus routes in Thurrock and the health benefits that more walking and cycling can deliver.”
Neil Speight added: “The Thurrock Thames Gateway Development Corporation is proud to support community events such as Bike and Hike the Mardyke.
“These events encourage people to visit and use their open spaces and it is good to see so many local partners supporting this event and encouraging local people to get out of the car, be more physically active and travel by foot, cycle and public transport.”
If you would like more information about walking, cycling or travelling by public transport in Thurrock please visit www.thurrock.gov.uk/travel or contact the Transport Department on 01375 652014 or email transport@thurrock.gov.uk
