Celebrate Sheldon and Save a Toad

Photo SheldonBrown.com

The two are not directly related – apart from the fact that they both take place in Holyrood Park this Sunday.

It’s almost two months since the internet’s best know (and best loved) ‘bicycle guru’ died. Since then various events have been held to celebrate his personal generosity to thousands (probably millions) of cyclists world wide.

The event on Sunday will be simple – just one minute’s silence near the swan pond (St. Margaret’s Loch) at 1.00. From 12.00 anyone with a bicycle is invited to ride along the (closed on Sundays) section from Holyrood Palace.

One thing about Sheldon is that he liked all types of bikes – and cycling. He had a hand in the boom/fad of fixed/singlespeed bikes. He also had a fondness for “English 3 speeds“. When MS meant he could no longer balance a two-wheeler he still rode his recumbent trike.

At one minute past one, some people will head for Dunsapie Loch in search of a personal best on the unofficial Arthur’s Seat Challenge. Some will carry on down to Duddingston Loch (on another Sunday shut section of road) and even on to Musselburgh for an ice cream at Luca’s. Others will head for Redbraes Park to see the first Edinburgh Falcons cycle speedway fixture of the year – against Hull, start 2.00.

Saving the toads starts at 8.30.

Holyrood Park’s Ranger Team is “looking for volunteers to help scour the hill, record any toads they find and deliver them safely to the loch”.

“Every year the toads migrate to Dunsapie Loch, and the last few metres of their trek are dangerous as they must leave the grassy hillside and cross the road.” Nick Pettigrew, Holyrood Park Ranger, says: “The toad patrol is a great event for children and adults alike, with lots of fun to be had. It’s a great learning experience as anyone can investigate the environment for themselves in a hands-on situation. Each morning during the spawning season the Rangers look out for toads. We can find up to 30 a day that need help.”

Meet at the entrance to the High Road near St Margaret’s Loch. Sturdy footwear and waterproofs are recommended. (Booking is essential for this event – call 0131 652 8150.)

Following the toad rescue activity there will be “more toady fun and games” at the Holyrood Park Education Centre from 10.00 to 14.00. There will be the “Toad Detective Challenge” – follow the clues, manoeuvre around the assault course and “save the missing, celebrity-toad”!

So come along for a spin in the Park on Sunday with your favouritest/fastest/funest cycle and take part in two events. Adorned helmets optional.