Feedback from a local cycling event could lead to the opening of a new cycle shop in Hexham.

Following the successful On Yer Bike Tynedale day on September 22, Dr David Dixon, Tynedale's Bicycle Mayor, has been gathering feedback on potential improvements for the cycling community.

One of the most common suggestions was the urgent need for a new cycle shop in Hexham.

The lack of a local bicycle repair shop has left many people unable to use their bikes, as mobile mechanics, who mostly work part-time, are hard to book.

A dedicated bike shop in Hexham could cater to all cycling needs, selling a range of bicycles and offering maintenance services at reasonable rates.

Mr Dixon envisions Hexham having a 'Bicycle Hub', which would serve as a shop, café, and a training area for both children and adults.

Entrepreneurs interested in this potential business opportunity are encouraged to contact him via the Tynedale Bicycle Mayor Facebook page or at bicyclemayor@drdaviddixon.earth.

Feedback came rolling in during the Hexham cycle event (Image: Tyndale Bicycle Mayor) The feedback also highlighted that some adults feel uncomfortable riding bicycles due to traffic concerns or lack of recent experience.

To combat this, Mr Dixon has been collaborating with the charity Cycle UK, which has funded cycle training for adults of all skill levels.

Cycle training is available on three upcoming Saturdays—October 12, 19, and 26—where individuals can book a 40-minute session for personalised training.

Free Dr Bike sessions will also be available at Hexham Marketplace on the same days from 10am to 1pm.

These sessions offer an opportunity for minor repairs and safety checks at no cost.

Twelfth City Cyclery's Tom Hardy will be present, offering his expertise, and a few jokes.

For confident cyclists, free stewarded rides of about 20 miles will be held on Sundays, October 13 and 19.

The rides will start at Hexham Market Place at 10am.

Cycling Tynedale will support and lead these rides, ensuring no one gets left behind.

Building on the popular group rides to Warden and back, these rides aim to encourage more local cyclists.

Mr Dixon urges everyone, whether a cyclist or not, to participate in the Great Tynedale Cycling Survey via www.drdaviddixon.earth/tynedale-bicycle-mayor.html

With a goal of 1,000 responses, only about 250 have been received so far.

The feedback gathered will help improve the cycling community in Hexham and beyond.