Wheeler's Wheels - February 2023

It's essential to follow the Countryside Code

Professional about cycling, David Wheeler cycles 30 miles a week and is a member of Saddleworth Clarion Cycling Club

With the weather improving more of us are getting out now. I have been asked by a number of local land owners through this page to remind everyone of their obligations when off road riding.

Our area has some wonderful off-road routes suitable for all ages and abilities, however all land is owned by someone. It is therefore essential that you check if cycling is allowed on the land.  For many farmers the next two months are a critical time of year with lambing season upon us.  Therefore it's essential if cycling is allowed, to follow the country code.  In particular leave gates as you find them, and to those riders who often take their dog with them the dog must be on a lead.

Every year farmers loose livestock to dogs and they the right to shoot dogs if worrying sheep.  Particular care should be taken if there are cows in the field with calves. If they feel the calves are threatened they will charge, and again each year walkers are killed when cows have charged when dogs have got to close to their calves.

If you are going out off road and going alone it is often a good idea to give someone an indication of your route.  A friend’s father went out the other week as he often did and did not come home. His mother called him to ask where he could be. My friend went out on the route his father often took to find him dead as a result of a heart attack.

Safe riding to all and give fellow cyclists a wave.

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