Cycling but not as you know it! Electric Bicycles come to Henley
The Henley Electric Bicycle Network is being set up by as a new project to get more people, both residents and visitors, cycling in the Chilterns. The Cycle Chilterns project has funding from the Department for Transport and is developing lots of plans to make cycling easier and more accessible across the Chiltern Hills.
Anna Cipullo, CTC Electric Bicycle Network Co-ordinator, said ““Electric bikes provide up to 70% battery assistance making light work of hills. They are ideal for those who don’t feel fit or confident enough to tackle a hilly route through leg-power alone, and it opens up cycling to a much wider audience. The Chilterns has so much to offer and we want to promote it as a place that's easy to get to and to enjoy without a car”.
Henley and the surrounding countryside is already a popular tourist destination and there is a strong network of businesses there to support this new initiative. Three businesses have already signed up as hire points, two in Henley-on-Thames (Henley Cycles and Swiss Farm Camping) and one in the nearby Hambleden Valley (the Chiltern Valley Winery). Swiss Farm Camping will also have some kids’ trailers and tag-a-long bicycles available for families. There will be charge points in cafes and pubs in the area and a free emergency pick-up service if needed.
David Ealand proprietor of Chiltern Valley Winery & Brewery, who is hosting the launch as one of the first hire centres explained why he is keen to take part. “The bikes should offer an interesting addition to the Tour and Tasting experience at the winery and brewery, already offering farmhouse B&B on site and now the chance to explore the locality on these brilliant bikes.”
Press contact on the day Sara Randle CTC Senior Development Officer 07825 854731 sara.randle@ctc.org.uk
Photo / interview and have a go! 8th July midday Chiltern Valley Winery.
Chiltern Valley Winery
Directions - Approximately half way between Henley and Marlow on the A4155, take the Hambleden turning at 'Mill End' (marked with a brown sign Chiltern Valley Winery & Brewery). 2.5 miles along the valley road, marked twice with a brown tourist bunch of grapes sign, take the first and only road to the left (also signed Chiltern Valley Winery & Brewery RG9 6JW)
Notes to editors
Notes to Editors
Listed below are the companies already taking part:
Henley Cycles, Reading Road, near Henley-on-Thames Railway Station
Swiss Farm Camping, Marlow Road, Henley-on-Thames, a short walk from the town centre
The Chilterns Valley Winery, in the nearby village of Hambleden
For more information on the bikes or if you are a business that would like to take advantage of hiring e-bikes on your premises, please contact Anna Cipullo on anna.cipullo@ctc.org.uk or call 07717 696672.
CTC is the UK’s largest cycling charity with 69,000 members. Established in 1878 CTC is also the oldest cycling membership body in the UK and continues to inspire and help people to cycle and keep cycling, whatever kind of cycling they do or would like to do. Over a century’s experience tells us that cycling is more than useful transport; it makes you feel good, gives you a sense of freedom and creates a better environment for everyone. Visit www.ctc.org.uk
Senior Media and Communications Officer Laura Raymond 01483 238315 or 07960 349405
Laura.raymond@ctc.org.uk
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Email: publicity@ctc.org.uk
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