A creative cycling project designed to help adults connect with nature at a gentler pace at Moira Furnace and Hick's Lodge has won a local award.

Under the Canopy: Pedal Slow was created by Midlands artist Lynne Hollingsworth was designed to combine slow cycling, creativity and sensory engagement through a series of accessible outdoor workshops inspired by the surrounding woodland.

Delivered in locations across the National Forest, including Hick's Lodge and Moira Furnace, the workshops are designed for adults and incorporate a neurodiverse-informed approach where participants are encouraged to move at their own pace with the option to cycle, walk or pause while exploring the landscape.

The slow cycling project is based in the National Forest (Photo: Lynne Hollingsworth)

The workshops involve drawing, mark making and using natural materials where participants have the chance to create individual artworks inspired by colour, texture, light and the atmosphere of the forest landscape. These pieces will later be bought together into a collective piece that will reflect their shared experience.

The project won the second Caroline Scothern award in the National Forest. The award celebrates the life and legacy of Caroline Scothern, who championed outdoor learning in the National Forest with passion, creativity and care.

Lynne Hollingsworth said: 'Under the Canopy: Pedal Slow is about creating a calm, welcoming space where people can experience the forest differently through slow movement, creativity and sensory connection.

'As someone who is neurodivergent and not naturally confident on a bicycle myself, I wanted to create something supportive and accessible for people who may feel unsure about cycling or group activities.

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'The project is about curiosity, creativity and finding confidence in moving slowly through nature.'

The workshops are completely free to attend and will be held locally on the following dates and locations:

• Tuesday 23 June, Hicks Lodge, 10.30am to 12.30pm
• Sunday 28 June, Moira Furnace, 2pm to 4pm
• Tuesday 30 June, Moira Furnace, 10.30am to 12.30pm
• Sunday 5 July, Hicks Lodge, 2pm to 4pm
• Sunday 12 July, Moira Furnace, 10.30am to 12.30pm
• Sunday 19 July, Moira Furnace 2pm to 4pm

To find out more about this experience and book your spot, visit nationalforest.org or www.eventbrite.com/cc/under-the-canopy-pedal-slow-4843367