Jingle jogging in a winter wonderland thanks to Tameside’s Bee Network

SLEIGH bells were ringing as children enjoyed a ‘Jingle Jog’ in a winter wonderland.

Pupils from two schools completed circuits of a scenic walking and cycling route, helping them get fit and active in the fresh air.

It took place at Chadwick Dam, through Ashton-under-Lyne and Stalybridge, which is leased by Ridgehill Big Local Enterprises, a not-for-profit social enterprise that leases and manages the land to benefit the community.

The beauty spot is home to a Bee Network scheme, having benefitted from improvements to an off-road path for people to enjoy walking and cycling and a new crossing at Mossley Road – all improving access to the park and connections between residential areas and Tameside Hospital.

Pupils at neighbouring Inspire Academy, part of Victorious Academies Trust, and Silver Springs Primary Academy, part of Great Academies Education Trust, can use the network to make active journeys to and from school or to enjoy the natural scenery.

Teachers were there to support the event, which was facilitated and supported by Tameside Council, Transport for Greater Manchester and Ridgehill Big Local Enterprises.

It also supported Tameside Council’s Think Green campaign, which aims to inspire residents and businesses to join the journey to a cleaner and greener Tameside.

Inspire Academy Principal Louise Armstrong said: “It was fantastic to have so many children enjoying the opportunity to get some exercise in the outdoors at a beautiful location. It’s wonderful to have Chadwick Dam on our doorstep with the Bee Network route helping our families cycle and walk to school.”

Silver Springs Primary Academy Principal Deborah Mason said: “The children had a great time racing around the Bee Network at Chadwick Dam. It’s a lovely spot where our families can enjoy the natural scenery, while the paths provide the option to cycle or walk to and from school.”

Councillor Jan Jackson, Tameside Council’s Executive Member for Planning, Transport and Connectivity, said: “I’m delighted that the children were able to have fun while being active and enjoying nature during this festive treat. I’d encourage as many people as possible to make the most of the facilities at this lovely location.

“The Bee Network enables people making short journeys to walk or cycle to their destination in a safe, healthy and sustainable way. We’re making improvements to our walking and cycling infrastructure across Tameside to benefit our residents throughout the borough.”

Greater Manchester’s Bee Network will provide a 1,800 mile, joined up cycling and walking network across the city-region to connect every neighbourhood and community and make it easier for people to get around on foot or by bike. It’s funded by The Mayor’s Challenge Fund (MCF) with £160million being invested across Greater Manchester. Find out more at www.tameside.gov.uk/MCF