MORE than 60 people braved the elements to propel Hope Valley Bike Collective’s first ‘Pies, Pedals & Punctures’ event to a flying start.
Interested, novice and experienced cyclists of all ages converged on Hope Sports Club for the chance to learn more about bikes, test their skills on the pump track, enjoy some delicious food – and much more besides.
The day included a social ride led by Peak Gravel Gang – a women-led, friendly, off-road cycling group – who also led a presentation on ‘bikepacking’.
There were three bike improver sessions led by Peak Cycling UK and the opportunity to get your bike serviced for free by Hope Valley specialist 18 Bikes. In addition, there was a ‘Bike Kit Swap,’ where attendees could donate or swap clothing and bike tools.
Delicious pies and refreshments were served by Café Adventure and there was also an indoor screening of cycling stories and adventures from across the world.
“It was fantastic to see so many people on bikes, of all
ages and abilities out in the fresh air for this special, celebratory event,” said Emily Gait, Move More Community Engagement Officer for Hope Valley Climate Action
“As the light was starting to fade, we rounded the day off with a light parade around Hope Valley Sports Club’s field.
“I’d just like to say a massive thank you to everyone who braved the rain to discover more about cycling and support us – and we’re already looking to schedule more events in 2026 to get even more people involved.”
The event on Saturday, November 29, was organised by the Hope Valley Bike Collective, which is part of the Hope Valley Climate Action Group. The collective aims to get even more people using cycling as a preferred means of travel across Hope Valley, elsewhere in Derbyshire – and beyond.
The event was sponsored by High Peak Community and Voluntary Support (CVS).
Ross Burnage, Chief Executive of High Peak CVS, said: “Pies, Pedals & Punctures shone a spotlight on the many different benefits of cycling in our community for travel, fitness and fun.
“We’re delighted to be able to support this important event and it was great to see so many people help celebrate all that’s good about cycling in the Hope Valley, while also meeting new people and discovering more about sustainable transport.”
- The next scheduled Hope Valley Bike Collective event is the Monthly Social Ride called ‘Any Bike Will do’ which will take place on Sunday, February 1, 2026 at the Bamford recreational ground at 10am.For more information about Hope Valley Climate Action go to https://hopevalleyclimateaction.org.uk/ .
