On the Spokes stall back in GreenFest 2019, questions and comments were dominated by the relatively newly opened Hermitage to Hampstead Norreys traffic free shared used path. At this 2022 year’s event, the path – and its potential extensions North and South – were still a talking point. But there was was a broader set of talking points too.

With environmentally related groups attending the event from Pangbourne, Mortimer and Burghfield – we had various comments on cycling and cyclist needs in those areas of West Berkshire. Cycling facilities along the A4, particularly with the recent changes between Waitrose and Brummel Road, was also a hot topic. Fortunately, with an almost encyclopaedic knowledge, Clive and Gordon were on hand to answer and respond to the stall’s visitors.

Noticeably, many people spoke about their new electric bikes which have brought a new lease of life! However, for some there is a concern of where to securely park their bike. Whilst Spokes encourages, or through planning applications will comment on, cycling parking facilities – it is not always possible to place them immediately outside an office, shop, etc. However, various people did say they don’t mind walking from and to a more secure cycling facility (e.g. a cycling hub). What are your thoughts? Would you use a cycling hub in your local town’s centre?

Another common comment was that people thought they are “cheating” with their electric bike – particularly on rides. For Spokes, we have had a some riders on electric bikes for about five years now. Anything that gets you out, meeting others and is an alternative to a less environmentally form of transport is definitely not cheating – surely desirable!

In the space of less than 30 minutes, two people talked about their experiences of using tricycles to assist with a poor sense of balance. One in particular is looking for a compact folding tricycle, do you know of one? And talking of folding, I had the good fortune to talk to one of the original founders and investors of Brompton. He put in £100 in the mid-seventies to help kick off a fantastic business and one that is responsible for “the” design for a folding bike, not a bike that folds. I thought my purchase of a Brompton in 1995 with a number in the 5000’s was impressive, this person’s Brompton’s was numbered 20!

We gave a way a number of old logo tabards – they weren’t making anyone more seen when in my shed. Although I felt sorry for the family of four when there was only two left of the child sizes. Still they did all get a free bell!

Many people took away the very popular free local cycling maps and routes, M-check sheets (check online if you don’t know what this is) and the odd tip to help them enjoy cycling more.

Big thanks to Gordon and Josh for a very early start, the extended help from Clive, and Ed for general help on the stall and transporting all the gear back. William