Kidical Mass Hitchin holds its first ever family cycle ride demanding child and people friendly streets

Hitchin, 14 September 2025 – A vibrant community of cyclists gathered for the Kidical Mass Hitchin event on Sunday, aimed at highlighting the urgent need for safer streets for everyone. Just over 100 participants of all ages took to the roads, riding together to demonstrate the demand for improved cycling infrastructure in Hitchin.

Despite the increasing popularity of cycling as a healthy and environmentally friendly mode of transportation, Hitchin currently lacks adequate cycling infrastructure. This event served as a call to action for local authorities to prioritize the safety of cyclists, ensuring that everyone—from children to seniors—can enjoy the freedom of cycling without fear.

The event featured a family-friendly ride through the heart of Hitchin, cheered on by shoppers and pedestrians, and showcasing the potential for a bike-friendly community. Participants expressed their hopes for a future where cycling is a safe and accessible option for everyone.

"Children should be able to independently cycle to school, to the park, to their swimming lessons, without putting their own safety at risk. Currently that is not possible in Hitchin and we want to see this change - It's time for local authorities to invest in our cycling infrastructure" said Kirsty Brain, founder of Kidical Mass Hitchin and a campaigner for good cycling infrastructure.

The lack of protected cycling lanes and safe crossings has made it increasingly difficult for families and individuals to choose cycling as a viable option for transportation. By participating in Kidical Mass Hitchin, community members are advocating for change and urging Hertfordshire County Council to take immediate action by putting children and families first by giving them what they need; safe streets to move freely and without fear. Improving how we travel will only happen if all generations feel safe on foot, or by wheeling and cycling.

As the event concluded, one young participant proclaimed, "Let's do that again!". This enthusiasm echoed the sentiments of many, particularly young people whose voices often go unheard, and promised that Kidical Mass Hitchin will return in the future with even more rides to advocate for safer cycling spaces."

For more information about Kidical Mass Hitchin and how you can support safer cycling initiatives in our community, please contact [email protected] or visit our facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/share/1JbXdqihSq/?mibextid=LQQJ4d.

About Kidical Mass:

Kidical Mass is a global movement that promotes safe cycling for families and advocates for better cycling infrastructure. Events are held in cities around the world to raise awareness and encourage communities to take action for safer streets. Kidical Mass's vision is for children and young people to be able to safely and independently travel by bicycle wherever they live. Their motto is "Space for the next generation".

Kidical Mass rides give visibility to a better, healthier and lower carbon future for young and old alike.