LOCAL politicians signed a Safe Cycling Pledge as around 250 protestors biked along the A38 between Taunton and Wellington.

Citizens Somerset organised the event yesterday (Sunday, March 20) by riding in convoy from either town.

The two groups, which included school students, families and veteran cyclists, met up at Sheppy's Cider Farm, in Bradford-on-Tone.

There they heard from people who support a new cycle path along the route, including commuters who had been knocked off their bikes.

The Citizens Somerset ‘Safe Cycling Pledge’ calls on candidates in the upcoming Somerset Council election to:

  • promote cycling as a means of sustainable transport;
  • support investment in Somerset’s cycling infrastructure so the county becomes a leader in sustainable transport and tackles climate change;
  • prioritise the Wellington-Taunton cycle route along the A38, aiming to start construction by 2025.

Chris Waddilove, of Citizens Somerset, said: “We organised this protest to show how unsafe the A38 is for cyclists, and to demonstrate the public support for the provision of a cycle path."

Taunton Deane MP Rebecca Pow said: "I’m launching a petition to present to Government to demonstrate the real need for a safe cycleway between Wellington and Taunton.

"This much-needed cycleway will bring huge benefits to the local community."

Cycle commuter Charles Biscoe said: "I’ve been knocked off my bike three times and I carry the effects of that.

"I keep cycling to work, come rain or shine, but this route should not be the domain of the brave. It should be a safe route for everyone.”

Teacher Rachel West said: "I love cycling, but I would love it even more if there was a safe way for me to cycle between Taunton, where I live, and Wellington, where I work."

Student Cameron Howe, who is helping lead the campaign, said: "A safe cycle route would give me independence, and allow me to go to restaurants in Taunton - and then burn the calories off on the way back.”

Parish council clerk Neil Dalton said: "I like to cycle, but when I use the A38 I feel frightened.

"I have been clipped on the shoulder by the wing mirror of overtaking vehicles on occasion."

King's College headmaster Richard Biggs said: "We want our children to feel safe when they cycle."

Eugene du Toit, headmaster of Wellington School, said: “We’ll be keen to meet with any of the politicians who have the power to make the Wellington to Taunton cycle route happen.”