Julian supports Fiona as she swaps her car for a bike to raise money for children (Cambridge Liberal Democrats)

Cambridge Liberal Democrats <camlibdems@gmail.com>

Julian supports Fiona as she swaps her car for a bike to raise money for children

August 31, 2010 10:24 AM

Julian joins Fiona for some practice before the charity challenge

MP Julian Huppert is supporting Cambridgeshire Lib Dem leader, Fiona Whelan, as she parks her car and motorbike for a month and gets on her bicycle.

She hopes the move will help to highlight the inadequate transport facilities and cycle paths in the county and raise money for a children's charity at the same time.

Fiona, who represents Hardwick on Cambridgeshire County Council, plans to donate the £100 she would have put in her car petrol tank to the Outlook Fund launched by former county councillor, Alex Reid.

And her charity donation has been matched by keen cyclist, Cambridge MP Julian Huppert who is delighted that Fiona is joining the cycling set.

Fiona's decision to leave the car and motorbike at home from September 1 means that her partner and two sons, who regularly rely on lifts, will have to find alternative transport as well.

She said: "I've brought some waterproofs and proper biking gear and I'm looking forward to the challenge. It will be hard for me because I rely on my car and motorbike; but I will have to get used to cycling, walking or taking the bus or train.

"I am going to the Lib Dem Conference in Liverpool next month and I would have instinctively driven and offered others a lift. But I am hoping my campaign will show how some areas of the county really suffer from lack of public transport and I will be blogging about my experiences."

Julian said: "I have been encouraging Fiona to use her bike more and I am delighted she has decided to give it a go.

"I am hoping my donation will encourage others to sponsor her. Hopefully, she will not only raise money for charity and highlight county transport issues but enjoy the whole experience."

Lib Dem Climate Change Spokesperson, Sarah Whitebread said: "The Lib Dems signed up to the 10:10 environment pledge to cut our carbon footprints by 10 per cent this year.

"Fiona's decision to swap the car and motorbike for a bicycle will go a long way to meeting her target. I am delighted she has taken this decision and wish her every success."