- Feel Good
- 19th Sep 2025
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Gateway Wheelers: The North East charity opening the world of cycling to everyone
- Advertisement Feature
From one dad’s idea to a thriving North East charity, tucked away in Houghton-le-Spring, Gateway Wheelers has been changing lives through cycling since 1996.
It all began with David Patterson, a dad who wanted his son, who had disabilities, to enjoy the same freedom on two (or three) wheels as any other child.
Frustrated by the lack of facilities, David set things in motion, and by 2000 Gateway Wheelers was a registered charity. Just a few years later, the team were recognised nationally with the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Award for Voluntary Service.
Fast forward to today and Gateway Wheelers is a lifeline for children, adults and families across the North East.
The charity runs weekly cycling sessions in Houghton Rectory Park offering a safe, supportive environment where absolutely anyone can give cycling a go.
MORE THAN JUST CYCLING
At first glance, it’s all about cycles. But after catching up with Sara Bateman last week, we quickly realised Gateway Wheelers is about so much more: building confidence, creating friendships and making the outdoors accessible.
Sara Bateman, the charity’s Lead Project Officer, explains: “Often people come to us anxious that they won’t be able to cycle. We take time to get to know them, find the right cycle and build things up slowly. Before long, they’re not only cycling – they’re smiling, socialising and asking when they can come back.”
The organisation has collected a huge range of accessible cycles over the years – from side-by-sides and trikes to hand cycles – which means they can tailor the experience to each individual. And if something doesn’t quite fit the first time, the team simply adapt and tries again until it works.
THE IMPACT ON PEOPLE’S LIVES
The feedback says it all….
Colin Clegg, who cycles with the group regularly, says: “I come to Gateway Wheelers for the exercise; it helps get my legs moving, otherwise I lose mobility in them. I’ve always enjoyed cycling and the great team here have made it possible for me to continue.”
For Mark Knighton, a keen mountain biker before his stroke, Gateway Wheelers has been nothing short of transformative:
“After my stroke, I didn’t think I would ride again. Gateway Wheelers gave me the opportunity and confidence to ride again on an adapted trike. The guidance and support they offer is first class, putting smiles on people’s faces with every turn of the wheels.”
It’s not just about adults either. One proud mum, Sarah Harling, recalls the moment her son Kaya achieved a huge milestone: “He’s been saying, ‘I wish I could ride a two-wheel bike.’ Today, he cracked it. Thank you so much, Sara, for your help and encouragement.”
FAMILIES, SCHOOLS AND COMMUNITY GROUPS
Sessions run four sessions a day every Monday, Wednesday and Friday and attracting a mix of individuals, schools and organisations all year round. For children who are neurodiverse, the group has partnered with local charities like The Sensory Place, giving families a familiar environment to try cycling together.
There are also monthly family rides in Houghton-le-Spring – relaxed, inclusive events where everyone can join in, regardless of ability.
And because Gateway Wheelers want to remove barriers, the costs are kept minimal: just £5 per rider, with free membership and no charge for support staff.
PEDAL POWERED BY VOLUNTEERS
Behind every session is a team of dedicated volunteers. Some help maintain bikes, others support riders around the track and many cycle alongside participants to encourage them.
Brandon Connelly, who has been volunteering for 18 months, says: “It’s brilliant. I help with the sessions and also ride my hand bike alongside the riders. It’s great to see everyone having fun and gaining confidence. Volunteering here has given me the chance to meet new people and be part of a team – anyone can get involved, no matter their ability.”
Sara is quick to point out that many of the volunteers have disabilities themselves, which only strengthens the sense of community and understanding. “We all work together,’ she says. ‘Everyone has something to bring, and we bring out the best in each other.”
LOOKING AHEAD
Despite the challenges of lockdown, which temporarily halted sessions, Gateway Wheelers has bounced back stronger than ever. With growing partnerships across Sunderland and Durham and increasing interest from schools, the future looks exciting.
Plans include expanding learner rides for children, pushing for more accessible cycle routes and even leading a celebratory ride across Sunderland’s new bridge once it opens.
“We want to show that cycling really is for everyone. Whether you pedal, push or just want to feel the wind in your hair, there’s a place for you here.”
Sara says
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
If you’d like to book a session, you’ll need to become a Gateway Wheelers member – a simple process that’s free of charge. Once you’ve chosen your bike from their online cycle section and booked a slot, all that’s left to do is turn up and enjoy the ride.
Volunteers and new trustees are always welcome too. Whether you can fix bikes, support participants or want to be part of a warm and inclusive community, Gateway Wheelers would love to hear from you.
This article was produced in partnership with the North East Combined Authority’s Go Smarter Go Active campaign.
Rachael Ellis
Head of Content
After gaining a first in her BA Media and Journalism degree at Northumbria University, Rachael worked at Newcastle’s leading regional newspaper with her stories being picked up in national and global newspapers. She spent two very successful years giving a voice to those communities across the North East who otherwise…
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