Just Ride Southend

JUST Ride Southend is a local charity that is celebrating after being awarded £15,000 of National Lottery funding from Sport England.

The money will be used to buy 2 VanRaam Fun2Go side by side specialist trikes.

The grant will allow Just Ride Southend to introduce two new side-by-side bikes to assist those who struggle to ride independently by having a buddy rider, who can assist with steering and pedalling, providing a safe and supported experience.

They are particularly effective as a transitional tool, enabling individuals to move from inactivity or dependency towards greater independence. By creating an environment where people feel safe, supported and capable, these can build confidence and reintroduce activity into people’s lives in a meaningful way.

Just Ride Southend is an inclusive cycling project that has been running for over 12 years, over 16,000 riders in 2026 of all ages and abilities have used the charities public drop-in sessions to become active.

Delivered in a traffic free environment, 3 times a week on the athletics track at Garon Tennis and Leisure centre Southend, on a Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday between 10-12, the project provides access to over 150 bikes including specialist and adapted trikes and electric assist wheelchair platforms, supporting participants from toddlers through to people aged 95+.

Sessions are affordable with a £2.50 donation to ride, and carers and parents of children riding can go free.

Alan Cook, administrator of Just Ride Southend, is said he is thrilled to have been awarded the funding: “We are delighted to celebrate this investment at a special event with Bayo Alaba MP, representatives from SAVs, Active Essex, SUEZ and Southend City Council, who all had a role in securing funding received recently including the National Lottery grant.

“This means we can provide increased opportunities for those who cannot cycle independently, and we can ensure that more individuals are able to take part in regular cycling, improving their physical health, mental wellbeing and social connection.

“Special Thanks go to everyone who plays the National Lottery, we wouldn’t be able to do this without you.”

For further details about the project please contact Alan Cook, [email protected] or call 07971 77447

Picture: Celebration of the funding event with Bayo Alaba MP.

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