Sun 11 Sept 2011

UNISON lining the streets on first leg of the Tour of Britain

Members of UNISON, the UK’s largest union will today (Sunday, September 11) swap the hospital corridors, classrooms and council offices to line the streets, and welcome cyclists on the first leg of the Tour of Britain.

As the tour makes its way from Peebles to Dumfries, UNISON members will be waving flags and blowing whistles to show their support for the world champion cyclists.

The union, which is sponsoring the tour this year, will bring its public services message to the event. Handing out leaflets, members will remind participants and the crowds, that just as events like the Tour of Britain bring communities together, so too do public services.

Mike Kirby, Scottish Secretary for UNISON said:

“UNISON is proud to sponsor the Tour Of Britain – and to welcome riders to the Scottish leg of the tour. Events like this are a great way of bringing people together – which is especially important in difficult economic times.

“As the UK’s leading public services trade union, our members are at the heart of local communities, providing healthcare, support and advice. But the services they provide, as well as their jobs, pay and pensions are being put at risk by government cuts.

“As well as celebrating the achievements of cyclists today, we will be calling on the crowds to remember the vital role that public sector workers play in their local communities.”

Stephen Smellie, regional vice-convenor for the union, will present the Young Rider Award – recognising the achievements of young people.

ENDS

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