Cycling UK’s impact in Moray
Working in partnership with Moray Council and HITRANS, Cycling UK is delivering meaningful change on the ground through our Connecting Communities programme.
Celebrating success: showcase event in Elgin
In May, we hosted a showcase event at the Elgin Sports Community Trust Pavilion. The day included a networking lunch, presentations from local partners and participants, and a visit to the Cooper Park Active Travel Hub, where Development Officer Paula Campbell introduced visitors to the bikes and support available.
The event shone a light on the depth and reach of the project’s impact, highlighting collaboration between public health, local authorities and community organisations.
Case studies: cycling stories from Moray
Between 2021 and 2025, we delivered 854 cycling activities in Moray, engaging 3,551 participants. Here are just a couple of stories that highlight the real impact this support has had on people’s lives.
Trish’s journey to confidence
Trish Fenton, 51, was eager to try an electric bike to help her get out and about more, and the support she received from us has made a huge difference to her life.
It has made a very big difference. I am able to be out and about socialising, working and attending college. I’m able to commit to doing my weekly job, which I wasn’t managing before. I save money on bus fares, get exercise I enjoy, and can visit friends. It’s totally different having safe, reliable transport that’s a joy to ride
Before joining the project, Trish sometimes struggled with longer journeys, especially when carrying shopping or getting to commitments. Walking was tiring and impractical for her daily needs. The e-bike loan scheme gave her the freedom and flexibility to travel further and more often, and she’s since gained confidence not just in cycling but in her independence.
Cycling lessons with Paula have been super helpful. I’m 51 and it’s been a great refresher for my cycle awareness. I now know routes to Findhorn and have plans to venture further to Lossiemouth, Burghead and Buckie. Paula took me on the cycle route from Elgin to Findhorn, printed out a map for me, and even emailed me the Cycling UK route planner so I can explore more places
Trish’s story is a powerful reminder of the many benefits that access to cycling can bring – from physical and mental wellbeing to improved confidence, reduced isolation and everyday freedom.
Robbie’s e-bike story: from sceptic to advocate
Robbie Hope, Director of Operations at Elgin Sports and Community Trust, was initially hesitant about the value of e-bikes. But after trying one through the project, his outlook completely changed.
I was totally against it. Now I am converted. The loan of the e-bikes allowed us to go to places we haven’t been before and took away the financial barriers. I now cycle to work – it’s quicker than driving – and I’m saving up for my own e-bike
Robbie’s experience has inspired others in the Active Recovery Moray project to try cycling. For participants recovering from addiction, cycling is proving to be a powerful tool for building confidence and independence.
Want to dive deeper into Robbie’s story? Read the full case study here.
What our partners say
The Cycling UK Project is now exactly what I hoped it would be when I had the idea for it almost three years ago. We have a great working relationship and we are able to make a huge difference to the people of Moray
Janet MacDonald, Sustainable Travel Officer, Moray Council
This project has literally changed people’s lives. I’ve seen the difference it’s made to a young woman’s confidence and self-belief – all because of the project and Paula
Zoe Drennan, Social Worker
The power of building positive relationships between organisations in Moray has meant we’ve achieved great things. People recovering from addiction have been able to use e-bikes to access places that once seemed impossible
Robbie Hope, Director of Operations, Elgin Sports and Community Trust
Looking ahead
The Cooper Park Active Travel Hub continues to grow in visibility and impact, with HITRANS reporting increased public awareness and stronger connections between local active travel and health partners.
We will continue working closely with Moray Council, HITRANS and community partners to ensure that even more people can experience the freedom, wellbeing and independence that cycling offers.
Together, we’re making Moray a happier, healthier and greener place to live.
