Torbay's Bike Mayor - 'I want to get more kids cycling to school and cut congestion'
Beth Huntley's position is not formally recognised by the council
Last updated 13th Aug 2024
Torbay's new so-called 'bike mayor' takes up her role today.
It comes just weeks after she led a demo with other cycling campaigners over plans to scrap a multi-million pound cycle path in Torquay.
Beth Huntley's position is not an official council role, but instead recognised by an international Dutch-based campaign group called BYCS and she's now the 140th 'bike mayor' worldwide, with Bristol and Bath both having one.
Beth said: "I am very aware that in Torbay we have an extremely hilly landscape which makes cycling challenging, this may be great for those looking to improve their fitness. However, due to my own health issues, I have a pedal assisted e-bike and absolutely love it!
"I really want others to share this joy, so one of my aims will be to put on trial events and facilitate trial schemes so others can try out this out. Whether you are commuting to work, nipping to the shops or planning a leisure trip to enjoy our beautiful coastline on trains and ferries; cycling may be the most enjoyable, convenient and healthy way to do it.
"Replacing vehicle journeys reduces congestion, parking issues, noise and harmful emissions."
In 2016 BYCS appointed its first Bike Mayor in Amsterdam.
Through the organisation Safe, Sustainable Travel Torbay, Beth will be organising events to promote cycling within the area - starting with a Torbay Critical Mass Ride for World Car Free Day at Torbay Velopark on Sunday 22nd September.