Over 60 cyclists light up Torbay's streets for inclusive Glow Ride

Torbay’s Glow Ride was a huge success, with over 60 riders coming together on Friday, October 30, to celebrate inclusive cycling and champion everyone’s right to feel safe on the streets after dark.

Organised by Safe, Sustainable Travel Torbay (SSTT), the annual event saw riders decorate their bikes with colourful, twinkling lights, creating a spectacular display as they travelled through the streets of Torbay.

The Deputy Mayor, Councillor John Fellows, launched the ride, which began at The Boathouse in Paignton.

Representing the Civic Mayor, Councillor Hazel Foster, Councillor Fellows spoke about Torbay Council’s work on women’s safety, including its Women’s Charter and improvements to CCTV in Torbay.

The ride brought together a diverse and inspiring group of over 60 people, highlighting that cycling truly is an activity for everyone.

The event formed part of Cycling UK's national My Ride. Our Right campaign, which highlights the barriers women face when cycling and calls for safer, more inclusive streets and routes.

Among the group was a handcyclist as well as members of NEXA who joined on an electric tricycle owned by SSTT.

The tricycle was funded by Local Mencap Torbay and allows people with different mobility needs to enjoy cycling and the freedom it offers.

Torbay MP Steve Darling, who is visually impaired, also joined the ride with his pilot rider on a tandem bicycle.

Multiple families took part in the Glow Ride, with some transporting their children in cycle seats and in cargo bikes.

One particular highlight for spectators was a cargo bike that had been transformed into an impressive and unique ‘witch’s taxi’.

Beginning at The Boathouse in Paignton, the riders travelled through the grounds of People’s Parkfield CIC, before eventually arriving at TQ Beerworks in Torquay where the celebrations continued.

There was a fantastic turnout of supporters who enjoyed watching the brightly lit cyclists travel through the streets.

Members of Torbay’s Green Party also spectated the event, due to conveniently being in the Bay for a conference.

The event was made possible by the hard work of SSTT’s volunteer marshalls who ensured that everyone stayed safe while still having fun.

The spectacular ride was also broadcast live by the Ocean Youth Radio team from Sound Communities CIC, allowing those unable to attend to tune in and enjoy the excitement.

Sue Vaughton, a professional photographer, captured the spirit of the event in a series of great photographs, while Aidan Presswell documented the ride from above with a drone.

Beth Huntley, Founder and Chair of Safe, Sustainable Travel Torbay, said: "What a fantastic evening!”

“To see more than 60 people of all ages and abilities coming together, lighting up our streets and celebrating the joy of cycling was genuinely wonderful.”

“We were particularly pleased that the Deputy Mayor officially started the ride and spoke about the Council's work on women's safety.”

“Feeling safe after dark matters enormously, whether you're walking home, cycling to work, travelling to meet friends or simply enjoying your local community.”

Beth also reflected on how the diversity of people taking part made the event so special.

She said: “We had adapted cycles, families with young children, experienced cycling groups and people who were perhaps trying something different.”

“That's exactly what we want to see: streets and travel opportunities that work for everyone.”

"Glow Ride is about more than lights and a lovely evening out. It's about inclusion, independence, confidence and creating communities where everyone feels they belong."