Trans Pennine Trail appoints Olympic Cycling Champion as new Patron

The Trans Pennine Trail (TPT) announce that Olympic cycling champion Ed Clancy OBE has been appointed as its new Patron.

Born and raised in Barnsley, Ed Clancy OBE brings a lifelong passion for promoting healthier, more active lives and building stronger communities. A multiple Olympic, World and European Champion, Ed is one of Britain’s most successful cyclists and remains a strong advocate for making walking, wheeling and cycling accessible to everyone.

His appointment comes at an exciting time for the Trans Pennine Trail as the organisation continues to promote sustainable travel, improve accessibility, celebrate its heritage and work towards its ambition of becoming a recognised National Trail.

The Trans Pennine Trail stretches coast-to-coast across the North of England, linking communities, landscapes and visitor destinations while providing opportunities for recreation, active travel and sustainable tourism.

Speaking about his appointment, Ed Clancy OBE said:

“It is a real honour to become Patron of the Trans Pennine Trail. As someone who grew up in Barnsley, this role has a special significance because Barnsley is where the vision for the Trail first began. Throughout my life, cycling has opened doors, created opportunities and shown me the positive impact that active travel can have on people’s lives.

The Trans Pennine Trail is much more than a route. It connects communities, supports health and wellbeing, encourages sustainable travel and helps people enjoy the outdoors. I look forward to working with partners and supporters across the Trail to champion these benefits and inspire more people to discover everything the TPT has to offer.”

Chair of the Trans Pennine Trail Partnership, John Wilson, welcomed the appointment:

“We are absolutely delighted to welcome Ed as Patron of the Trans Pennine Trail. His achievements as an Olympic champion are recognised around the world, but it is his passion for active travel, accessibility and community wellbeing that makes him such a perfect fit for the Trail.

Ed understands the transformative power of walking, wheeling, riding and cycling and shares our vision of creating opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to enjoy the benefits of the Trans Pennine Trail. As someone with strong South Yorkshire roots and a national profile, he will be an outstanding ambassador for the Trail and the many organisations, volunteers and local authorities who help make it such a valued asset.”

Councillor David Goddard Cabinet Spokesperson for Environment and Transport, Barnsley Council said:

“Ed’s appointment is a proud moment for the Trans Pennine Trail and for Barnsley. The vision for the Trail began here, and it is fitting that its new Patron shares those local roots. Ed’s achievements, profile and commitment to active travel will bring valuable support to the partnership as we encourage more people to enjoy everything the Trail has to offer.”

As Patron, Ed Clancy OBE will help raise awareness of the Trail, support engagement with partners and communities, and champion the role that active travel, recreation, heritage and accessibility play in improving lives and connecting places. Please visit: Meet our Patron | Trans Pennine Trail