Everyday pedal pioneers: John

I live in Preston and work in the city centre as a primary school Headteacher. I cycle to work most days and find it the perfect way to begin and end each working day: fresh air, some headspace and some gentle exercise. It also means fewer car journeys, which feels like a small but meaningful contribution towards caring for our environment. The personal health benefits are clear too – I always arrive at work feeling more awake, energised and ready for the day ahead.

Cycling has also become a big part of family life too. I often use an e-cargo bike to transport two of my young children around the city. They absolutely love it! What began as a practical solution has become one of their favourite ways to travel. We often reach places more quickly by bike, taking direct routes along cycle lanes or the Guild Wheel and avoiding the traffic altogether. It turns the journey into an adventure rather than something to rush through. We also notice so much more of the world around us and often stop to take a closer look, especially if passing some animals in a field!

Like all parents, I’m naturally conscious about safety, especially when cycling with children. However, the improving infrastructure across Preston (including new cycle lanes and safer crossings) has started to make a difference. We usually feel safe on our routes and the convenience of cycle parking means we can often stop right beside a school entrance, a shop or even ride directly up to a play park.

Most importantly, cycling has simply brought more joy into our everyday lives. It keeps us active, reduces our reliance on the car, and gives us daily moments of connection with the outdoors and with each other. For us, it’s a way of living more lightly, more healthily and with a bit more fun.