As one of many Guild Volunteers, or Guilders, marshalling and stewarding the Sky Ride event in Preston last weekend, I felt privileged to play a small part in the total success of this event.
AdvertisementAround 7500 participants enjoyed a terrific day out on their bicycles, and it was particularly great to see the number of small children out on their stabilisers and trikes. Lots of people commented on how good it was to be able to cycle through the town centre completely free of traffic. Having seen many participants setting off from the Flag Market in the morning, it was wonderful to see them later on from my new post in Miller Park, still cycling late into the afternoon having done several circuits of the course with the occasional stop for refreshment, to admire the scenery, to listen to the band or for a chat with the marshals and stewards.
There was also lots for the children to do to on the day, from exercising on the trampolines to practising their road safety skills. Everyone seemed to be in “happy” mode and thankful for the efforts made to bring this event to our city.
Many spectators and participants may be surprised to learn that members of the Guild Committee were also out in strength and were kept busy all day. They began setting up an hour before any of the volunteers arrived and were still there when the last volunteer had gone. Stella Hall, the Guild Festival Director, and her team are very hands on and do a lot over and above their paid jobs. They are aways very appreciative and take good care of their Guilders.
A fabulous day.
By Tass Cotton