BRIDGWATER’S new cycling campaign group has been awarded £500 to support its work.

Somerset County Council has made available up to £2,000 to each County Councillor to put forward up to four grant proposals, to improve the lives of local communities.

On Thursday (February 27), Cllr Leigh Redman presented the first of his grants to chairman of the Bridgwater Area Cycling Campaign (BACC), Gary Perrett.

The focus of the County Council grant scheme is to empower communities and groups to take responsibility for local action, help people to become better integrated in their own communities and to reduce pressure on local services.

Cllr Leigh Redman, who is SCC councillor for Bridgwater South said: “This fund has given me the opportunity to support four amazing schemes that concentrate on young and old with a drive on mental health and wellbeing.

“I am a massive supporter of raising awareness in mental health, it is something we all share, some good and some bad.

“My first scheme, getting £500, allows me to support Bridgwater Area Cycling Campaign (BACC), who are looking to build and enhance, cycling opportunities in Bridgwater by campaigning to build a network that makes cycling and walking a viable option for everyone.”

Gary Perrett, chairman and founding member of BACC said “It is great that Cllr Redman, who has been supporting our group from the beginning, is able to help us build on the cycling network in Bridgwater South.

“BACC members are mapping the existing network and campaigning for more routes and to encourage people out of their cars, we all know that with the traffic in Bridgwater it is often quicker to cycle.”

Mr Perrett added: “I would love to hear from anyone who would like to discuss our campaign.

“Our website is TheBACC.org.uk, or my email is bridgwaterareacyclingcampaign@gmail.com.”

Cllr Redman said this was the first of four schemes he would be supporting.

Cllr Redman added:”It’s easy to cycle regularly because you can incorporate it into your daily routine – for example, commuting to work.

“It’s more economical than most forms of transport too; only walking is cheaper.”