Designed to celebrate those making significant contributions to their communities, VisitEngland’s Tourism Superstar Award 2024 has shone a spotlight on Rob Brown, a passionate advocate for inclusive cycling at the Dalby Forest Cycle Hub in the North York Moors.
As the only nominee from Yorkshire among the ten contenders nationwide, Rob has been recognised for his remarkable efforts in making cycling more accessible and inclusive, and positively impacting thousands of lives. With voting now officially open, Yorkshire residents are being encouraged to support Rob and cast their votes for the Tourism Superstar Award.
Rob’s journey
Hailing from Pickering, Rob Brown was nominated for the award by the North York Moors National Park, in recognition of his pivotal role in enhancing inclusivity in cycling and contributing to the area’s reputation as a caring community. Serving as a co-director at the Dalby Forest Cycle Hub for the past six years, Rob has been instrumental in developing a distinctive and inclusive cycling centre nestled in the picturesque woodland surroundings.
Under Rob’s leadership, the Cycle Hub has evolved into a special destination offering memorable cycling activities for people of all abilities. The Cycle Hub demonstrates inclusivity in action, providing bikes and training for everyone from the disabled to the fully able-bodied, and from the very young to the elderly. Rob’s work has also extended to schools, disability groups, and charities across the region, touching hundreds of lives.
Breaking down barriers
Understanding the transformative power of cycling in breaking down social and physical barriers, Rob has dedicated considerable time not only to teaching bike-riding skills but also developing positive mindsets. His work focuses on empowering people of all ages and encouraging them to achieve more. Perhaps Rob’s most impactful work has been his role in helping school children across North Yorkshire to develop essential life skills through cycling, fostering teamwork, encouragement, resilience, and a sense of ‘I can do this’.
Rob’s involvement with special educational schools has also gone beyond cycling proficiency. He has provided a therapeutic escape and assisted in building coping skills for individuals facing unique challenges. Recognising the importance of accessibility in outdoor activities, Rob has worked with the North York MoorsNational Park to access grant funding, enabling the Cycle Hub to expand its fleet of adapted bikes and invest in accessories to support those with specific mobility and sensory impairments.
Explaining his inspiration, Rob said:
“I first became aware of the need for accessible cycling some years ago, whilst working with a primary school. There was one little boy who used a wheelchair and the teacher explained that he would stay in the classroom whilst the other children rode their bikes. I just felt so sad, and I promised I would find a bike so that he could join them. I did, and from that moment on, my life changed, and so did his.
“There are so many inclusive bikes available now that can liberate the lives of people impacted by illness or injury, and we want to get that message out there. Why is that so important? Well, when you hear the laughter of a mum who was able to ride in the forest with her daughter for the first time. Or the shout of encouragement from a group of friends to their mate who survived a stroke. Then you will know, and you will understand why I do what I do.”
Catriona McLees, head of marketing and communications at the North York Moors National Park adds:
“Rob is an inspiration. Through his involvement with our Tourism Accessibility project, we saw how passionate and dedicated he is to helping people get more out of their lives.
“His work at Dalby Forest Cycle Hub has helped the North York Moors become a blueprint for other destinations to follow when it comes to increasing their accessibility and inclusivity. Crucially he has also enabled us to go beyond showcasing the beauty of the North York Moors and show how there’s a caring community at the heart of the National Park.”
Rob’s nomination for the Tourism Superstar Award is a testament to his unwavering commitment to inclusive cycling and community enrichment. With the public able to cast their votes until 24 March, Rob’s story highlights the huge impact that one person can have on the lives of many others.
To vote for Rob, go to VisitEngland’s Tourism Superstar.
