Around 15 Santas on bicycles brought some festive cheer to shoppers in Redcar this week, with a fun ride along the coast, organised by our walking and cycling Hub.
15 people put on their festive gear and joined the ride from Redcar to Saltburn
Around 15 Santas on bicycles brought some festive cheer to shoppers in Redcar this week, with a fun ride along the coast.
The event was organised by our Redcar Walking and Cycling Hub and was open to all ages. The cycling Father Christmases assembled at the Redcar Palace Hub in Santa suits and hats and Christmas jumpers. People decorated their bikes with tinsel and seasonal sparkles.
The festive group rode 10 miles from Redcar Palace Hub, to Saltburn and back.
At Saltburn the Santas had a ride on the Saltburn Cliff tram and shared homemade chocolate brownies.
Our volunteer ride leader Michael said: “Leading the Santa bike ride from Redcar to Saltburn was an absolute joy. The winter sun glinted off the North Sea as our merry band of cyclists, all decked out in festive gear, pedalled along the beautiful coastal route.
“These rides do so much more than just get people cycling - they build community and show people of all ages how accessible and enjoyable active travel can be, especially in gorgeous spots like ours. Even Santa would approve of switching his sleigh for a bicycle once in a while!”
Clare, a participant on the ride said: “Several cyclists from the local area and Stockton came together in Santa attire with tinsel and decorated bikes!
“We enjoyed a lovely, if not cold, ride from Redcar to Saltburn, and went on the cliff lift!
“It’s a brilliant event that needs to be every year!”
All ages enjoyed the ride!
“It was great to see so many Santas on bikes in Redcar!” said Ksenia Shigaeva, at the Redcar walking and cycling hub, who organised the Santa Ride.
“Thanks to everyone who came along and joined in the festive fun. Meeting for social walks and rides can be a great way to stay active during the winter months. It’s easier and more enjoyable to walk or cycle together. We mainly stick to easier, traffic-free paths and we always find somewhere to stop for a warm drink and a chance to refuel.
“Redcar and the Tees Valley have some fantastic routes to explore on the National Cycle Network. Please do call in to your local walking and cycling hub to find out more about local routes for all abilities, as well as events to help you stay active all year round.”
Two volunteer Santas guarded the bikes while participants had a ride on the Saltburn Cliff tram
Redcar to Saltburn is a traffic free coastal path which is part of Route 1 on the National Cycle Network, running from Dover to the Highlands of Scotland.
The Redcar Walking and Cycling Hub is one of our five hubs in the region, which help more people walk and cycle. They are funded by the Tees Valley Combined Authority.
The hubs run regular free guided walks and rides, as well as training and tips on riding a bike, bike maintenance, or safe routes for work and school or leisure, as well as access to affordable bicycles. Some hubs also provide free bike parking.
Visit TeesValleyWalkingandCyclingHubs on Facebook to find out more about local events.
