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18 Jun 2026

Cycling industry leaders and campaigners have given a mixed response to the Government’s new £4.5 billion Cycling and Walking Investment Strategy (CWIS3), with some describing it as...

15 Jun 2026

If you stock e-bikes, you may need to re-read your policy because a generic shop or retail insurance policy is unlikely to cut it these days. Unless you have a policy designed to accommodate...

12 Jun 2026

The first ever Local Bike Shop Week has been hailed a major success, as the Association of Cycle Traders Director made a personal visit to present the inaugural Local Bike Shop Awards winner...

11 Jun 2026

Local Bike Shop Week has delivered a successful nationwide campaign, bringing together major cycling media, leading industry partners and, most importantly, independent bike shops across the UK...

10 Jun 2026

ACT parent company Bira has published its latest retail crime survey, with findings that paint an increasingly urgent picture of the pressures facing independent businesses across the UK.
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5 Jun 2026

Long-standing ACT partner V12 Retail Finance has been announced as sponsor of the Retailers Category at the BikeBiz Awards 2026, reinforcing its continued support for cycle retailers across the...

3 Jun 2026

ACT parent company Bira has warned that soaring business costs have gutted the entry-level jobs that once gave young people their first step into work, as government figures confirm the number...

1 Jun 2026

E‑Bike Positive has entered a new phase with the introduction of its updated Retailer Commitment, as the scheme prepares for a full public launch this summer.

29 May 2026

ACT Director Jonathan Harrison Featured on Latest BikeBiz Podcast Discussing E-Bike Positive

29 May 2026

New data shared by ACT partner V12 highlights the growing role of finance in the cycle retail sector

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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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