Walk Wheel Cycle Trust has appointed Sarah Roberts as its new CEO.
With effect from autumn this year, Roberts will lead the charity’s efforts to engage more communities over the next four years and strengthen links between the National Cycle Network and local walking, wheeling and cycling networks across the country.
Roberts will also be responsible for delivering Walk Wheel Cycle Trust’s new strategy to transform the UK into a nation where everyone can walk, wheel and cycle whenever they choose, regardless of where they live, by 2050.
“This work is transformational on so many levels – improving health and wellbeing, connecting communities, building social cohesion and reducing environmental impacts,” said Roberts.
Before joining Walk Wheel Cycle Trust, Roberts was actively involved in sustainable transport initiatives. She previously served as CEO of the international development organisations Practical Action and the Ethical Tea Partnership.
More recently, she completed her term as co-chair of Hope Valley Climate Action, which coordinated work with local and national stakeholders to secure £12 million in investment from national and regional government. The funding will support the development of a high-quality, integrated public transport network for rural areas.
Moray Macdonald, Chair of the Board of Trustees at Walk Wheel Cycle Trust, said: “Her wealth of experience and clear enthusiasm for walking, wheeling and cycling will be a huge advantage to the charity as we take forward our bold new strategy. By giving people more choice in how they get around, we create a ripple effect that changes everything, from physical health and mental wellbeing to making our world a better place to live.”