Catherine is one of 2,500 fantastic volunteers who help look after the Network.
Catherine and her fellow Sustrans volunteers help keep the National Cycle Network in top condition.
"I greatly enjoy being part of a friendly, relaxed group."
Catherine is a Sustrans volunteer ranger in White Peak. Volunteering on the National Cycle Network since 2005, Catherine tells us what being a volunteer with Sustrans means to her.
I joined Sustrans as a volunteer some years ago. I spend just a few hours a month helping to improve and maintain signage and spruce up the National Cycle Network in White Peak.
As a volunteer ranger, I carry out regular maintenance tasks with fellow local volunteers to ensure the route is in top condition. We clear litter along the pathway, cut-back vegetation and ensure that the National Cycle Network signs are clear and unobstructed so that people can easily navigate the route.
Sadly last week my mother passed away at the grand old age of 95. Upon reflection the best gift she gave me – apart from a profound maternal love – was her having the courage and belief to boot out my sister and me in our early teens to go off cycling between YHA hostels in East Anglia and Wales.
My love of cycling grew and as a result I joined Sustrans as a volunteer. I greatly enjoy being part of a friendly, relaxed group.
Socialising with fellow, like-minded people is great fun as we spend just a few hours a month looking after something that means so much to lots of people – the National Cycle Network.
Thinking about volunteering with Sustrans?
What would I say to someone who was thinking about volunteering with Sustrans? Please do come along to a task day with your local volunteer group. It doesn’t matter what you wear – lycra is not essential!
Also, apart from needing a roadworthy bike to get around, it’s not necessary to be a speedy or particularly proficient cyclist. If you enjoy cycling, give volunteering with Sustrans a try.
As my cycling suffragette grandmother would say, we need to “Fight, fight, fight for the right” to keep the National Cycle Network open and running smoothly for everyone to enjoy.
Fancy becoming a volunteer ranger? Take a look at what our volunteers do on the National Cycle Network.
Want to join our 4,000 volunteers and help to make a difference in your community? Check out our current volunteer vacancies.