Pete got on his bike!
Written by Shaun Moore on July 3, 2010
Gloucestershire County Council’s Chief Executive proved that even confident and experienced cyclists can benefit from brushing up on their cycling skills.
Pete Bungard, a keen and regular cyclist, received cycle training with Sheila Corkett, Gloucestershire Road Safety Partnership’s Manager, last Friday from the partnership’s Cycling Coordinator, Don Muir. 
Don said: “Our adult cycle training is suitable for all people, whatever their age or experience. We all get into bad habits and are sometimes not aware of how bad positioning can make cyclists more vulnerable.”
Don has seven rules for safer cycling which he went through with Pete and Sheila. They are:
- Be responsible for your own safety
- Use a good road position
- Be aware of what is happening all around you
- Communicate effectively with other road users
- Think before you filter
- Follow the laws that apply to you
- Cover your brakes
They both sat in the cab of a HGV, provided by Joseph Rice Haulage, to see for themselves what the driver can and can’t see and the importance of safe road positioning.
Pete said: “Thinking back, whilst I am a cycling enthusiast, the last time anyone trained me I was aged 12 – plenty of time for bad habits to develop. Nearly 40 years later, road conditions are hugely different, so I believe anyone should still be open to learning.” 
Sheila said: “I was amazed at the effectiveness of the on-the-road training and I now feel confident I am cycling safely on the busier roads that I may have avoided before.”
