"I was 34 years old and 15 stone when I discovered the cycle path between Chester and Connahs Quay, with an old bike I was given I cycled the path and was amazed at the scenery and the feeling of freedom it gave me. After approximately 10 miles I fell through the door exhausted but exhilarated. It was wake up call as to how unfit I had become. I spent the whole autumn and winter riding that route.
The following spring I bought a hybrid bike and ventured out to discover the most beautiful parts of The Wirral and Cheshire. A friend and I then cycled Sustrans C2C route from Whitehaven to Newcastle over three days, staying in Greystoke, Allenheads and finally Whitely Bay. It was the most fantastic experience and I was left with a real sense of achievement.
Today I regularly commute over 40 miles to work. I am 39 years old 12 1/2 stone, as fit as I have ever been, and feel brilliant. At weekends I take my son (who is 3) on a bike seat down the Chester to Connahs Quay route, have a picnic and watch the gliders take off from Sealand. He loves it and is looking forward to getting a trailer bike next year.
Thank you for constructing and maintaining all the cycle paths and giving me the opportunity to discover cycling. It has changed my life.
Sean Haigh
Chester"
"I'd love to see more people get fit and active. Connect2 makes this possible for millions across the UK and would improve our environment too." Lorraine Kelly
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