The Revd Mark Siddall, Priest in Charge at St James, Quedgeley, has written a practical guide to help anyone considering cycling as their main form of transport.
Written from years of personal experience, the guide offers step-by-step advice for those interested in reducing or even giving up car use. It covers everything from choosing the right bicycle to planning safe routes, suitable clothing and the financial aspects of cycling.
“I first got into cycling from about the age of 12,” Mark said. “It gave me space to explore, and during my GCSEs and A levels it became a way of getting away from everything. I discovered just how far people can travel by bike, which I think many don’t realise.”
Today, cycling remains an essential part of his ministry and wellbeing.
“I think cycling fits into my world as a Christian person,” he said. “The act of cycling, inhabiting your body and inhabiting fully the world around us, to me, is a form of prayer.
“It’s also a really good way to unwind and get some exercise while travelling. You often need to travel from one place to another, so combining them means you’re building it into your daily routine. Active travel is a great way of making sure you get adequate exercise to stay mentally and physically healthy.”
The guide also addresses some of the practical concerns people have about cycling.
“I cycle in any weather,” Mark said. “There are rain suits for cycling. You can turn up to wherever you’re going really dry and presentable. One of my rules is that it shouldn’t be noticeable to the people you’re working with. I keep the suit in a waterproof pannier, and that means I can cycle whatever the weather.”
He is also keen to encourage those who may think cycling is beyond them.
“There are ways that people can get involved with cycling that’s accessible,” he says. “Cycling UK has plenty of local learning groups, including adult lessons on how to ride a bike, and there are also accessible cycling opportunities for people with various disabilities.
“The key thing is that the guide is supposed to be a source of joy.”
Download Mark’s guide here → Cycling Jobbing Vicar
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