If youre a female bike shop owner who dabbles in journalism and was formerly a lawyer, the CTC wants you. In fact it wants any and all interested parties to help shape the proposed devolved regional sections of the CTC

CTC splits up (sort of)

"If you believe you represent the views of cyclists in your region, get involved and become one of the policy makers," says Pete Latarche, the CTC Chairman.

Regional committees for nine English sections, and an Irish/overseas section, will be set up by CTC later this year.

The move will enable decision making on cycling issues to be taken at regional level reflecting regional needs and expectations. Several regional conferences have already been held, more take place this month and there are another three in July.

The Countryside Agency, tourism agencies, Sports Council and transport planning organisations have already devolved power regionally and CTC is proposing similar changes to ensure its voice continues to be heard at all levels of decision making.

CTC Director Kevin Mayne said: "CTC Council would like more women to become involved and more people from areas such as racing and offroad cycling plus those with specialist skills such as a business, legal or media background.

The nine English regions will be based on areas now used by the governments Department of the Environment, Transport and the Regions. CTC Scotland was formed in 1996 and CTC Cymru established last year and both now have full-time members of staff working with the Scottish Cycle Union and Welsh Cycling Union respectively.

Regional committees will be formed later this year made up of DA and Right to Ride network representatives, others representing the general membership and newly elected National Councillors. Once regions have raised sufficient funds, they too will be able to appoint full time staff.

"It is important that we know what all cyclists want and we are looking for volunteers who want a say in how cycling should develop in their regions," Mayne said.

"It is a chance to contribute particular skills and get involved with devolved government. We want to provide greater local democracy and transparency and will fall behind if we do not follow changes in other organisations."

President Phil Liggett said: "This move is critical to all cyclists and CTC is proud of its tradition as a member-led organisation, run by cyclists, for cyclists."

Regionalisation meetings

CTC South West, Saturday May 13

St James Church Hall, St James Street, Taunton TA1 1JS

Start: 10.45am, likely finish: 3pm

CTC East Midlands, Saturday May 13

International Community Centre, 61b Mansfield Road, Nottingham

Start: 10.30am, likely finish: 3pm

CTC North West, Saturday July 1

Friends Meeting House, Buttermarket Street, Warrington

Start: 10.30am, likely finish 3pm

CTC London, Saturday July 22

University of London Union, Malet Street, London WC1E 7HY

Start: 10am, likely finish 2pm

CTC West Midlands, Saturday July 29

Venue and times to be confirmed.

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