Given that the government announced changes and some relaxation to rules about time spent outdoors, this is just an update with regard to WVCC activities and cycling in general.
There are still NO club activities. NO group rides, NO time trials, NO road or circuit racing until such time as we announce it. Do not go out in a group to ride.
If you are cycling on your own or with members of your household, please see the following.
Very much repeating the advice as it applies to cyclists, it is best summed up by the text posted on the British Cycling web site:
How does the Government’s new guidance impact cycling?
Riding a bike is a great way to stay active, look after your mental health and make every-day journeys, and we applaud the Government’s recent efforts to get more people cycling at this time.
While cycling is now very much encouraged, you must still adhere to the social distancing guidelines set by the UK Government and the devolved administrations. You can find the most up-to-date guidance for riding in Scotland here and in Wales here.
WVCC note: we live quite close to the Welsh border and often ride into Wales, so be particularly mindful of the advice for Wales.
On Wednesday 13 May, the guidance in England changed. The updated guidance is as follows:
- You may exercise outdoors as many times each day as you wish.
- You can only exercise alone, with those you live with or with up to one person from outside your household. Gatherings of more than two people from different households are not allowed at this time.
- You should maintain a two-metre distance from anyone you meet from outside your household while out riding, stopping and waiting for people to pass at a safe distance when necessary. This is particularly important when riding on narrow paths and trails.
- You can sit and rest outside before, during and after your ride.
- You may drive to outdoor publicly accessible open spaces irrespective of distance, but should follow social distancing guidance while you are there.
- In line with UK Government guidance, those aged over 70 should continue to take particular care to minimise contact with others outside their household.
- When cycling in Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, you should follow the guidance and regulations issued by the relevant devolved administration.
- If you are showing coronavirus symptoms, or if you or any of your household are self-isolating, you should stay at home.
It is important to stress that at this time, when the NHS continues to operate under extreme pressures, it is important that you ride within your ability level and take appropriate precautions.
What will happen if people don’t ride responsibly?
While the restrictions on cycling outdoors eased from Wednesday 13 May, the Government had made clear that this is contingent upon people continuing to act responsibly.
The infection rate will increase if people begin to break these rules and, for example, start to meet up and ride in groups. This will also trigger the need for further restrictions.
By riding responsibly and following the guidance, you’ll be securing our right to ride outdoors, protecting the NHS and saving lives.
Please adhere to these guidelines.
Thanks
Adrian Japp
Club Secretary