CYCLISTS and GPs in Warwick are saddling up together.
Warwick Lanterne Rouge Cycle Club (WLRCC) and GPs at The New Dispensary have formed a partnership that will see cyclists given health checks and ride leaders given first aid training.
Club founder Richard Poynter said: “Every club ride is split into groups with each led by an experienced and trained ride leader. This partnership takes that leadership a step further with every leader attending a first aid course specifically focused on treating the most common roadside injuries suffered by cyclists, like gravel rash and cuts and bruises.
“No one wants to use these skills, but as our club goals we want to ensure we can look after people if help is needed. In the past month we had a rider hit a pothole and come off breaking his collarbone.”
Tim Morris, managing director of South Warwickshire GP Federation, and himself a keen cyclist, welcomed the team-up.
He said: “Cycling is a very healthy activity and we often direct patients towards it to help them lose weight and improve their general health.
“However, some people have been put off cycling because they are worried about riding on the roads. Lanterne Rouge’s inclusive approach means they can take on board anyone from complete beginners to very experienced cyclists and we liked that.”
WLRCC is an inclusive social cycling club for adult male and female cyclists which holds regular club rides for all abilities throughout the year.
Visit www.wlrcyclingclub.com for further details.
