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29 Oct 2025

A new long-awaited cycle lane through Marylebone in London has been approved despite strong opposition from local councillors, parents and residents worried about safety and traffic impacts.

28 Oct 2025

Thousands of riders across the UK joined Cycling UK’s Glow Rides to call for safer cycling and walking routes that reflect women’s needs and experiences.

27 Oct 2025

Richmond Council’s new £664,000 cycle parking hub at Richmond Station has been met with ridicule from cyclists who say it’s inaccessible and poorly designed.

17 Oct 2025

A shocking 83% of independent retailers say theft has worsened over the past year, whilst the vast majority of crimes now go unreported due to lack of police response, according to ACT parent...

14 Oct 2025

ACT member Cyclo Monster has been recognised by local media for its commitment to keeping Derby’s cycling scene independent, community-focused and thriving.

10 Oct 2025

Cycling experts have shared their top tips in a new Guardian feature revealing how simple maintenance habits can extend the life of a bike and save riders from costly repairs.

9 Oct 2025

More people cycled than drove during a rush hour morning in Glasgow, according to new traffic data from Cycling Scotland.

2 Oct 2025

More than one in four Londoners say they are now more likely to consider cycling following Tube strikes in the capital in September, with many using e-bikes for transportation during the...

2 Oct 2025

The British Transport Police (BTP) has confirmed it will not investigate thefts of bicycles left outside train stations if the bike has been unattended for more than two hours, a policy critics...

1 Oct 2025

The Government is preparing to introduce new offences for cyclists who cause death or serious injury through dangerous or careless riding, with penalties brought in line with those faced by...

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Bookshops most popular choice as 40% of Britons dream of starting their own small business

Posted on in Business News , Cycles News

Four in ten Britons dream of starting their own small business, with bookshops the most popular choice, according to new research by American Express Shop Small.

Bookshop owner

In the survey, cafés, fashion boutiques, restaurants and pubs made up the top five aspirational start-up businesses, with people most tempted by the prospect of having more independence (28%) and pursuing a passion (22%).

Though it remains a dream for many, those who have taken the plunge to run their own business are greatly admired, especially for their determination (57% said they admired this quality in owners of independent businesses), passion (56%) and their creativity (37%).

Top 10 dream businesses Brits would like to own:
1. Bookshop
2. Café
3. Fashion boutique
4. Restaurant
5. Pub
6. Record store
7. Bakery
8. Market stall
9. Gym
10. Hardware shop

Now in its tenth year, this year’s American Express Shop Small campaign aims to support small businesses by encouraging the nation to back their high street and enjoy the benefits of ‘shopping small’, whatever their budget.

Daniel Edelman, Vice President & UK General Manager, Merchant Services at American Express, said: “Many of the small business on our high street represent the fulfilment of someone’s dreams; although it can be incredibly rewarding, it takes a lot of hard work and determination. That’s why we’ve been running our Shop Small campaign in the UK since 2012 to celebrate these small business owners by encouraging everyone to shop small, whether on everyday purchases or a little festive treat.”

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