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16 Apr 2026

The ACT is urging independent bike shops to enter the first ever Local Bike Shop Awards before entries close on Sunday 19th April.

10 Apr 2026

It’s easy to forget the moment your love for bike shops began. Mat Clark, owner of BRINK - a UK-based business specialising in cycling retail, brand strategy, and industry insight -...

8 Apr 2026

Bike frame and fork protection specialists BikeWrap has confirmed its sponsorship of the Cytech Pub Quiz, part of the build up to Local Bike Shop Week next month.

2 Apr 2026

Bikebook has announced a new integration with Shopify

1 Apr 2026

An awards scheme celebrating independent bike shops that go above and beyond for their communities launches this week.

30 Mar 2026

ACT parent company Bira has warned that falling retail sales in February are an early sign of consumers reining in their spending amid growing economic uncertainty.

26 Mar 2026

A flagship cycling borough in outer London is poised to lift its eight-year ban on dockless e-bikes, with Waltham Forest Labour Party pledging to introduce a scheme if it retains control of...

26 Mar 2026

Bira has welcomed the government's £319 million investment in high street revitalisation, while warning that without reform of business rates and action on overseas imports, many high...

19 Mar 2026

This one's sobering: 42% of small businesses reported a cyber breach in 2024, according to the National Cyber Security Centre. And it's not just massive corporations being targeted. It's small,...

19 Mar 2026

The Chancellor held a roundtable discussion on a future high street strategy last week, with Bira the sole voice representing smaller retail businesses. Read an update on Bira's place at a...

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ACT member hosts community ride to promote wellbeing

Posted on in Business News , Cycles News

An independent bike shop in Stroud recently offered a community bike ride to local people. ACT member The Ark Cycles opened Ark Community Shop Ride to cyclists of all ages and skill levels.

p>Ark cycles

More than 20 local people took part in a 22 km scenic loop, taking in the natural beauty of the Stroud Valleys. Designed to be leisurely and accessible, the ride ensured that everyone enjoyed the experience regardless of riding ability.

The group rounded the ride off with well-deserved refreshment at Stroud Brewery.

Research shows that people who cycle regularly are significantly less likely to feel stressed.

According to cycling charity, Sustrans, exercise like cycling can lower the levels of the body's stress hormone, cortisol. Cycling releases feel-good endorphins, which help to relax the mind and make you feel happier, reducing feelings of anxiety.

Sean Townsend, co-founder of The Ark Cycles, said: "We are excited to be able to bring the community together through this bike ride, not only to explore Stroud's beauty, but also to promote good exercise and mental wellbeing. This community event was a great way for people to experience those benefits while connecting with others.

"Cycling has always been more than just a physical activity; it's a powerful tool for my mental health. The community ride is our way of sharing the joy and therapeutic benefits of cycling. We believe in the strength of our community, and this event's great turnout is a testament to the positive impact we can have when we come together."

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