Ed Clancy OBE – Patron, Trans Pennine Trail

The Trans Pennine Trail is delighted to welcome Ed Clancy OBE as Patron of the Trans Pennine Trail Partnership. Born and raised in Barnsley, Ed brings a lifelong passion for helping people live healthier, more active lives and for building strong, connected communities.  Barnsley is not only Ed’s hometown, but also the place where the original vision for the Trans Pennine Trail was first conceived, making his appointment particularly special.  

One of Britain’s most successful cyclists, Ed Clancy OBE has enjoyed an outstanding sporting career, becoming a multiple Olympic, World and European Champion. From his early days cycling in South Yorkshire to competing on the world’s biggest sporting stages, Ed has experienced first-hand the opportunities that active travel and cycling can create.  

Today, through his work supporting healthier, more active communities, Ed continues to champion the benefits of walking, wheeling and cycling. He shares the Trans Pennine Trail’s belief that access to safe, welcoming routes can help people improve their health and wellbeing, connect with communities, enjoy the outdoors and discover new opportunities.  

As Patron, Ed will act as an ambassador for the Trail, helping to raise awareness of its importance as a nationally significant multi-user route. He will support the Trail’s work to promote active travel, improve accessibility, celebrate its heritage, encourage environmental stewardship and inspire more people to explore and enjoy the route.  

Stretching coast-to-coast across the North of England, the Trans Pennine Trail connects communities, landscapes and visitor destinations while providing opportunities for walking, cycling, wheeling and horse riding. The Trail’s vision of creating accessible, sustainable and enjoyable routes for all aligns closely with Ed’s own values and commitment to encouraging active lifestyles.  

A Message from Ed 

“I am incredibly proud to become Patron of the Trans Pennine Trail. As someone born and raised in Barnsley, it means a great deal to support an organisation whose journey began here and which now connects communities across the North of England. 

The Trans Pennine Trail is much more than a route. It helps people be active, enjoy the outdoors, improve their wellbeing and discover new places. I look forward to helping champion the Trail, supporting its future development and encouraging more people to experience everything it has to offer.”  

Looking Ahead 

The Trans Pennine Trail Partnership looks forward to working with Ed Clancy OBE to promote the many benefits of the Trail and help inspire future generations to walk, wheel, cycle and ride their way across one of the North of England’s most important multi-user routes.  

Quick Facts: Ed Clancy OBE 

• Born and raised in Barnsley, South Yorkshire 

• Patron of the Trans Pennine Trail (appointed 2026)  

• Three-time Olympic Gold Medallist 

• Multiple World and European Cycling Champion  

• Advocate for walking, wheeling, cycling and accessible travel 

• Passionate about improving health, wellbeing and opportunities through active travel 

Current Role: South Yorkshire Active Lives Commissioner, helping to champion walking, wheeling and cycling whilst supporting the development of safer, more accessible active travel networks across the region 

Get in touch with Ed through the National office, at info@transpenninetrail.org.uk