A new and rather unusual cycle trail through Salford and Manchester has launched to showcase the cemeteries within the two cities.
Launched as a partnership between ‘Friends of’ groups in Manchester and Salford, as well as the respective local councils, the bike trail will see a route charted through eight cemeteries in total, linking the two city centres.
Cemeteries have been described by the council as “beautiful and tranquil green spaces” which alongside acting as a space for quiet remembrance, are valued assets to local communities.
Gail Spelman, Chair of the Friends of Philips Park Cemetery group, said: “This project is a wonderful collaboration of partnership working with Manchester and Salford friends’ groups and Bereavement Services.
“Cemeteries are beautiful green spaces for people to enjoy and reflect whilst visiting their loved ones. Our eight cemeteries make a circular trail round the City Centre and we have lots of history to read in each cemetery and they make wonderful stopping points.”
The 32.8-mile-long trail will feature the following cemeteries:
- Blackley
- Philips Park
- Gorton
- Southern
- Weaste
- Peel Green
- Swinton
- Agecroft
Councillor Barbara Bentham, said: “Salford City Council is delighted to be part of this initiative which promotes active travel and celebrates the cultural and natural heritage our green spaces offer to our communities.
“This new trail, through the serene beauty of our green flag award winning cemeteries, will be a wonderful blend of history, nature, and cycling in our urban landscape.”
Funding was also secured to allow for the installation of a number of cycling stands which will enable people to park their cycles more easily when visiting a cemetery.
QR codes will also be set up along the route to provide background information on the history of the cemeteries which people can learn about on their ride.
Get more detail on the circular trail
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