Group: Bedgrove Residents & Community Association
Project: Pump track
Grant: £5,000
Fund: Young Futures
The Bedgrove Residents & Community Association encompasses around 3,000 houses and 7,500 residents in the Bedgrove ward of Aylesbury. It aims to make life better for everyone in the local area, and is entirely volunteer run. Noticing that young people were digging up the local woodland to build make-shift jumps and ramps, they used a grant from the Young Futures Fund to build a pump track in Bedgrove Park. Designed with help from local young people, the track aims to provide a permanent facility for the children to use in a more suitable location and for the woodland to remain a place for nature to thrive.
Since opening, the track has seen a regular stream of visitors with increased numbers during the school holidays. Visitors have shown strong respect for fellow track users and a genuine sense of community, with many forming new friendships. Older children have taken on mentoring roles, supporting and encouraging younger riders.
The growing popularity of cycling sports, fuelled by high-profile competitions such as the Olympics and Commonwealth Games, has been reflected locally. The track launch event brought the community together, with contributions from a nearby BMX club, a pump track champion, and a mountain biking coach alongside their students. Local BMX content creators also supported the day, capturing and sharing the experience to inspire others. The event not only showcased local talent and expertise, but also encouraged wider participation and skill development.
As a result, more young people are spending time outdoors, staying active, and building meaningful connections with their peers away from screens and negative behaviours. These positive shifts are not only improving their physical and mental wellbeing, but also enhancing their confidence, resilience, and personal growth that will benefit them long into the future.
Photo credits: Richard Crouch, Rob Jefferis.
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