Tots in Tow event rolls into Inverurie
A new event is being held next weekend to help parents find the perfect way to travel with babies, toddlers and young children on bikes.
Tots In Tow is being hosted in Inverurie’s Kellands Park on Saturday, September 19 from 10am to 4pm.
The event is designed to help parents, guardians and carers discover the many ways they can cycle confidently with young children, while enjoying a fun family day out.
Delivered by Everybody's Cycling on behalf of the Active Travel and Strategy Development team at Aberdeenshire Council, the event will showcase a wide range of family cycling options including child seats, trailers, tag-alongs, cargo bikes and longtail bikes.
Visitors will have the opportunity to see and try different set-ups, helping them find the solution that best suits their family's needs.
The free event will also feature cycling activities including:
• Family Cycle Try-Out Area with more than 25 unique and inclusive cycles
• Pedal-powered attractions
• Balance bike arena for young children
• Children's cycling skills track with a range of ramps
• Bike Doctors offering free bike safety checks and basic repairs
• Opportunities to try an e-bike
• Trishaw rides and demos
• Refurbished adult and child second-hand bikes and accessories for sale
• Children’s face painting
• Information stalls on cycling and active travel
Refreshments will be available to purchase throughout the day.
Cllr Alan Turner, chair of the council’s Infrastructure Services Committee, said: “Whether families are already cycling regularly or are completely new to travelling by bike with children, I would encourage people to attend this weekend’s Tots in Tow event which will provide practical advice, hands-on experience and friendly support from cycling confidence champions and experienced staff.
“Our teams already do lots to enable and encourage school children to cycle, but this event is a new approach which aims to teach parents and carers that they can travel actively with babies and toddlers too. The aim is to promote sustainable travel habits earlier on, enabling those returning to work after parental leave to take children to childcare in a sustainable way.”
Joanne Mahon, CEO of Everybody's Cycling, added: “Many parents would love to cycle more with their children but aren't sure where to start or what equipment is available. Tots in Tow gives families the chance to see, try and compare different options in a relaxed and supportive environment. We hope visitors leave feeling inspired and confident to make more journeys by bike."
Family cycling can offer a practical, affordable and enjoyable alternative to short car journeys while helping children build confidence and independence. The event has been designed specifically for families with young children, offering activities suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities.
The event is supported by Aberdeenshire Council, GetAbout and Nestrans, and funded by the People and Places Programme by Nestrans, through Transport Scotland.
For more information, visit www.getabout.org.uk/getabout-aberdeen-city-and-shire-by/getabout-with-children
