Wasn't sure whether to put this in here or the politics board, it's very much both.
Yesterday in Manchester a group called Labour Cycles held it's inaugural meeting, the purpose of the group is to ensure that the next Labour General Election Manifesto commits to improving cycling provision and to do the same on a regional and local level. Details and how to join (It'll be open to all Labour members) will be on the website before long
https://labourcycles.wordpress.com/Along with the above it was an enjoyable day. A fair smattering of people I know, some in different guises, some familiar Cycling UK faces, and as expected a great line up of speakers. Chris Boardman kicked it off, I thought he was a good cycling ambassador a year ago, his role as Manchester's Cycling and Walking Commissioner has taken that to a new level, he has the knowledge and examples from around the world and an entertaining straightforward way of presenting it. The representatives from several councils/regions gave good account of what can be achieved, the barriers and ways to try and overcome them. Rachael Maskell MP -Shadow Minister for Transport, and Dr Rachel Aldred – A Senior Lecturer in Transport, University of Westminster stood out for me, so much enthusiasm. Plenty of other speakers and all taking Q&As, though kept to a tight schedule by the chair.
Reasonable lunch, free book (Bike Nation) and the ticket was only a tenner! Train ride on the scenic Trans Peak in the snow, all in all a good day out.