Press Release - 29 April 2006

Three cycle rides have been organized under the theme of the Tye Green (Audax) Challenge Rides for Sunday 28 May 2006 to highlight the threat to the north west Essex countryside from the proposed expansion of Stansted Airport.

North West Essex is a much loved area for seasoned club riders and Sunday cyclists alike, largely because of its tranquility and landscape.  However, the continued enjoyment of a wider area is now jeopardized by the plans to create an airport bigger than Heathrow today.

If the expansion plans for a second runway went ahead, noise from overflying aircraft, urbanization from airport related development and additional air pollution from one million extra passengers a week traveling to and from the airport, largely by road, would all encroach on the lanes which are so beloved of cyclists from far and wide.  It was this threat which prompted 71 year old Hertfordshire Wheelers cyclist William Chastell to design and organise the rides in the context of his support for the Stop Stansted Expansion campaign.

Says William Chastell:  “My motivation came from the discovery of the threat of the possible demolition of Tye Green, Elsenham one of six Tye Greens in Essex to make way for airport development.  Molehill Green and adjacent villages which give their names to the rides are now on the site of the proposed second runway.”

“This is an area of beautiful, typically rural English countryside and very popular for cycling. It is too good to lose,” he adds, calling on riders everywhere for their support in what promises to be an excellent day out on a bike.”

The Tye Green (Audax) Challenge Rides feature:

1.  The Great Easton Challenge 40 miles.
Starting at 9.30am, this ride passes through some of the oldest villages in Essex, an area very popular for cycling.

2.  The Molehill Green Challenge 65 miles.
Starting at 9am, this ride takes in many pretty villages and lush farmlands of north and west Essex The tour was developed in response to requests by club cyclists.

3.  The Tye Green Challenge 101 miles.
Starting at 8am, covering a variety of terrain and scenery which is uniquely Essex.

Two shorter (non Audax) Family Fun cycle rides of 9 and 23 miles have also been arranged for those who wish to ride with young children.

Application forms are now available on request from Stop Stansted Expansion 01279 870558 or can be downloaded from Coming Events. 

The fee for riders is £4 per adult (or £6 if paid on the day of the rides rather than in advance) and £1 for children under 14.  Riders are invited to collect sponsorship (optional) in aid of Stop Stansted Expansion to contribute to the fighting fund.

ENDS