It was announced today (21 December) that former professional mountain bike racer and co-founder of the Adventure Syndicate Lee Craigie will act as a national advocate for walking and cycling across Scotland.

Her role will be to raise the profile of inclusive and sustainable modes of travel while promoting their heath, environmental, social and economic benefits to everyone who lives, works in or visits the country.

Suzanne Forup, Cycling UK’s Head of Development in Scotland, said: “We’re delighted that Lee has been appointed to this high-profile role.

“As a founder of the Adventure Syndicate and with her experience of working with young people experiencing mental health issues, Lee understands how cycling can improve our health, enhance our wellbeing and reduce inequalities.

Lee understands how cycling can improve our health, enhance our wellbeing and reduce inequalities

Suzanne Forup, Head of Development in Scotland

“We’re looking forward to working with Lee to achieve our ambition of enabling more people in Scotland to cycle for transport, leisure and adventure whatever their age or ability.”

The Scottish Government committed to appoint an active nation commissioner through the 2017 Programme for Government to help encourage an active nation, where more people can enjoy the benefits of accessible walking and cycling than ever before.

With the doubling of the active travel budget to £80m, Lee’s role will be to act as a national advocate for walking and cycling across the country.