I’m Andrew and a few years ago I received my Essex Pedal Power bike. Cycling has become more than just an activity for me, it has hugely benefitted my mental health. I was isolated and lacking in confidence before receiving my bike and joining the Essex Pedal Power family, so the whole experience has been life changing. Cycling now feels like a part of my daily routine and I would feel lost without it.

I have been cycling everyday and pushed myself to take on new challenges. The Essex Pedal Power team in Clacton and Jaywick Sands have enabled me to have more social contact with people, which has changed my life, and also helped me access new opportunities by supporting me to become a fully trained cycle leader. Since I started cycling 3 years ago, I have noticed daily improvements in myself and it’s helped me to engage with the wider Essex Pedal Power community through the led rides I can now join and lead.

I want to take part in Ford RideLondon-Essex and complete the 60 mile route, because it will be a massive cycling achievement for me. I have now cycled over 20,000 miles and looking forward to adding to this number, especially with the challenge of Ford RideLondon-Essex in May!