Lochlann McAfee's school run - ten year old cycles up to 17 miles a day in heavy traffic
Published: 29 April 2011
by PETER GRUNER
TEN-year-old Lochlann from Archway looks a bit vulnerable on his mountain bike waiting at traffic lights up against a double decker bus.
But the boy thinks nothing of cycling an average of 17 miles a day in some of London’s heaviest traffic.
Fortunately, Lochlann is accompanied by his dad, Cornelius McAfee, an experienced cyclist, as they make the daily trip to and from school in south West London.
“I’m like the Sea Shepherd,” said Mr McAfee. “Lochlann goes before me and I’m just behind and out a bit to protect him.”
Each day at 6.30am to avoid heavy traffic Lochlann, from Dartmouth Park Hill, and Mr McAfee, set off for the 50-minute journey to Newton Preparatory school in Battersea. Mr McAfee, 57, is head of history at the school.
The only day Lochlann doesn’t cycle to school is Wednesday, when he has double PE and plays football and would be too tired.
Mr McAfee, the former deputy head of Bruce Grove School in Tottenham, said: “We both agreed we prefer the long cycle ride to and from school rather than put up with public transport. I can’t stand having to squeeze on to a Tube or bus with all those people.
“It was quite difficult for Lochlann’s little legs at first when we started last year. And you have to watch out for taxis, lorries and the pedestrians who suddenly walk out in front of you. But the majority of motorists, when they see a child on a bike, are reasonably considerate. And Lochlann has lots of confidence now. He’s a prince of the road.”
Lochlann said he likes cycling for the freedom it gives. “But I’m pretty hungry and tired when I get home,” he admits.
They try and vary the route they take each day to make it interesting.
Currently from Archway the route takes them to Kentish Town, Camden Town, Regent’s Park (Outer Circle), Great Portland Street, Regent Street, Piccadilly, Green Park, Buckingham Palace, Victoria station and Chelsea Bridge.