This Bike Week (09 – 15 June) Surrey Hills Society is calling on all budding bikers who want to give something back to the landscape they enjoy riding through.

The Society, a small charity focussing on improving conservation and access, is assisting the Surrey Hills National Landscape by looking after five off-road cycle routes in southwest Surrey.

It is now looking for volunteers to help with this work around Puttenham, Elstead, Thursley, Frensham and the Devil’s Punch Bowl.

Totalling just under 55 miles, these loop routes are all largely off-road or use quiet roads and are perfect for those keen to escape the traffic and explore nature. Each route is individually waymarked with distinctive colouring, but riders are also able to use Komoot (an app like Google maps but for where the roads end) to guide them along the trails.

The Society is keen to identify people who would be interested in riding the routes and assisting with a variety of tasks including litter picking, waymarking and reporting of any issues on the route, such as fallen trees, flooding or erosion.

Kate Bannister, Surrey Hills Society Volunteer Coordinator said:

“If you’re someone who loves riding off-road and always wanted to learn more about how routes are put together using rights of way and what goes on behind the scenes, then this is the opportunity for you!

Knowing how busy everyone is day to day; these roles are designed to be flexible and fit around our volunteers’ schedules. Whatever help we receive will go a long way to ensuring more people can explore the countryside, while also helping in our conservation efforts by keeping riders on the right path.”

These volunteer roles are designed to be done at a time most suited to the individual riders, with a set schedule of tasks being provided over time. Committed volunteers will also be able to receive mentoring and training from the Society, making it an ideal role for people looking to develop the skills for countryside management jobs.

Rob Fairbanks, Surrey Hills National Landscape Director said:

“One of the overwhelming bits of feedback we received in our recent management plan survey was the importance Surrey residents put on both conservation and access to the Surrey Hills.

This volunteering opportunity is great example of balancing both aspects, and we look forward to sharing our commitment to enhancing visitor experiences whilst making space for nature with our passionate volunteers.”

Volunteers can find out more and register their interest at: https://www.surreyhillssociety.org/volunteer-2/