Volunteer star: Sandie

Hello everyone! I’m Sandie, a Spin Buddy with Preston Pedals.

One of my earliest memories is the feeling of joy and freedom I had while cycling around on my BMX as a child. I seemed to have no fear back then! Fast forward to adulthood, and I realised I was lacking in some fun, so back on the bike I went. Following some challenges and health battles, cycling with Preston Pedals supported me to recover and regain my confidence. It also helped me make friends and develop a network of simply brilliant people.

I cycle for fitness, mental wellbeing, social connections and a love of the outdoors. I enjoy challenging myself and supporting great causes through charity rides. Last year, I completed the Manchester to Blackpool Charity Ride, which had been a goal of mine for a while. This year, I aim to complete a solo cycle of the Leeds-Liverpool Canal and a 3-day group tour covering the northern loop of the Lancashire Cycleway. I would love to experience cycling abroad too!

With the support of Preston Pedals, I recently became a qualified ride leader with British Cycling and a Breeze Leader. My next steps are to develop local routes, with the obligatory café stop, and provide a welcoming, supportive space for others to join me and share the joy of cycling.