Health Impacts of Climate Change
The Bishop's Waltham Bike Bus is coming your way in June 2025!
Bishop's Waltham is experiencing a "Rush Hour" like never before. Recent data suggests that at least one in four car journeys between 8 a.m. and 9 a.m. involve transporting children to and from school. In response, the Greening Campaign is introducing an initiative aimed at reducing traffic congestion while promoting fitness and environmental awareness.
With support from the Southampton based "Hub Cycle Works" www.hubcycleworks.co.uk, including mechanical advice and cargo bike training, this initiative aims to promote responsible cycling among young people, reinforcing skills learned through cycling proficiency programs.
While many families in Bishop's Waltham already walk their children to school, those living over a mile away often find walking impractical, especially in colder months. The Bike Bus provides a viable alternative—safe, quick, and environmentally friendly, particularly in the summer.
Parish Counsellor Judy Marsh said “ We believe the Bike Bus is a great addition to our Park and Stride Scheme, offering families another way to reduce car usage.I will be cycling with them in support!”
Introducing The Bike Bus!
In June 2025 the Greening Campaign is introducing a Bike Bus that will support pupils and parents at Bishop's Waltham Infant and Junior Schools to safely travel to and from school under pedal power!
If there is sufficient interest from families with children who cycle then a group of volunteer cyclists will work with parents to assist in bring this to fruition.
The provisional dates for the rides are Fridays in June 6th, 13th, 20th and 27th.
What route will the Bike Bus follow?
The provisional route is below but people will be able to join at safe points along the route.The likely starting point is at Clover Way in NewTown (Bishop's Waltham) and the total distance is about 1.7 miles. Scroll down to see our interactive route maps....
Our bikes haven't been used for a while - how can we check they are safe?
Safety is very important to this initiative.
To ensure that bikes are in top condition, Southampton based "Hub Cycle Works" www.hubcycleworks.co.uk will be at Bishop's Waltham Junior School on May 22nd from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. offering free bike checks. Families can also test ride a cargo bike to see if it suits their needs.
How do we find out more about joining the Bike Bus?
Those interested need to contact the Greening Bike Bus team by emailing bikebus21@gmail.com or speak to your school.
There is a preliminary meeting at 6pm on Thursday 1st May 2025 at The Junior School - details to be announced! Please come along if you can. It is intended that there will be a Whats App group for those participating so we can communicate directly with the group with changes in weather conditions or any safety concerns and information.
It is hoped that this pilot project could pave the way for a larger initiative. If successful, the Bike Bus may be extended to transport Swanmore pupils from Bishop's Waltham to Swanmore, with Winchester City Council's support. A Bike Bus requires planning and the consent and support of parents and guardians.It will be expected that parents/guardians cycle with the Bus. If you are interested please get in touch by emailing greening@bishopswaltham-pc.gov.uk
Interactive Maps:
These route are provisional. There will be agreed stops on the way.
The final route will only be agreed once those who wish to join are identified. A safe route will then be assessed for risk and finalised.
The Bike Bus morning route:
The Bike Bus afternoon route:
Stay hydrated in hot weather...
Reduce risks from Mosquitoes...
Tick borne diseases and why you don’t need to worry!
1) Ticks can cause Lyme Disease in humans by passing a bacteria into the blood stream.
2) Only about 20% of ticks are infected. So 80% of the time a tick is just an annoying insect bite.
3) An “infected” bite causes a specific rash, Erythema nigrans. This will respond to antibiotics that can be prescribed by your Doctor.
4) Remove the tick as soon as you find it. Use a “tick remover” to ensure the whole tick is removed. These can be obtained from a chemist or outdoor shop.
5) Lyme Disease and related conditions manifest within 6 to 12 weeks. Common symptoms are flu-like illness, facial palsy and/or arthritis.
See the NHS website for further advice:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/lyme-disease
