British Cycling has today launched its second annual #cyclingsaysthanks campaign, encouraging all those in cycling to celebrate the contribution of volunteers during National Volunteers’ Week.

The week runs from June 1-7, and is organised by the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO) as an opportunity to celebrate the diversity of volunteers within society in general.

Cycling simply couldn’t function without volunteers, as these numbers prove:

-        There are 14,000 volunteers registered with British Cycling

-        These 14,000 perform 25,000 voluntary roles between them

-        56% of our volunteers volunteer at least once a month

-        71% of our volunteers have been involved for over two years

Julie Harrington, Chief Executive of British Cycling, says:

“I’m delighted that we’re again leading cycling in saying a big, and deserved, thank you to our volunteers. Their contribution simply cannot be overstated; for every one of our 14,000 registered volunteers, there are others who perform unofficial roles which help events, races and clubs to function.

“I’d like to get the campaign off and running by saying a personal thank you to everyone who gives their time to cycling, and would encourage others to join in over the next week as #cyclingsaysthanks.”

Helen Scott, world and Paralympic champion tandem pilot, adds:

“It’s absolutely no exaggeration to say that every rider that has made it to the top of this sport has benefited from the tireless, selfless work of at least one of our sport’s many volunteers. Their contribution is never taken for granted by riders or anyone else within the sport, and it will be great to see the #cyclingsaysthanks campaign again highlight how much cycling appreciates its volunteers.”

As well as giving people involved with the sport the opportunity to show their gratitude, the campaign will also reward nominated volunteers with personalised messages from Great Britain Cycling Team riders, and prizes including signed merchandise and event tickets.

All you need to do to say thank you, and for them to be in with a chance of winning a special gift from us, is nominate them here or tweet @BritishCycling with their name, volunteer role and a couple of words on the amazing work they have done, using the hashtag #cyclingsaysthanks.