Biker Groove

We speak to Tim Smart, Individual Giving Officer, about his role with the Trust as well as his commitment to not using a car

Tell us a bit about yourself and your job at Sussex Wildlife Trust

I live in central Brighton with my family, and grew up there too. I’ve been in this role for five years, but have had a connection with Sussex Wildlife Trust for a very long time. I visited Woods Mill as a child - we’d walk over the downs from Portslade. It was very different. There was a shop in the Mill building, mice running about and a stuffed fox!

I did screen printing and graphic design from school, and eventually went to University to study English and Related Arts. Years later I returned to do an MA in Creative Writing. All of these things helped me become a better fundraiser which I’ve done since I left university. I love fundraising, there is so much variety and I work with a great team of Trust staff. It’s a privilege working for the trust, and fundraising seems to bring out the best in people. Our members and supporters are amazing and really care about what we do.

I'm pleased to have run three marathons on behalf of Sussex Wildlife Trust over the years

How do you travel to work?

I sometimes get the bus to Henfield and walk across the fields and along the Mill Stream (which is lovely for spotting and hearing wildlife – Nightingales in the summer, Short-eared Owls in the winter), but mostly I cycle and have done since I started the job. We got rid of the family car ten years ago – I couldn’t work for conservation charities and justify it.

Cycling takes between 30 minutes and an hour depending which bike I take and how energetic I’m feeling. When we sold the car we felt justified in investing money on the right equipment. I’ve got two bikes, good, breathable waterproofs and plenty of sets of cycling gear for warm and cold weather. And puncture-resistant tyres. Autumn is a bad time for punctures – thorns or whatever.

What are the challenges?

Keeping the equipment maintained. But my dad owned a bike shop, so I know how to do that. I’ve ridden bikes in Sussex for over 50 years now. These days most drivers are better and more considerate, but there are a lot more cars.

Any unexpected benefits?

Fitness. You see more wildlife and notice the seasons changing. It’s nice and refreshing to get out there and moving in the morning. In terms of my family, trips together on public transport mean we talk to each other, play cards, notice things. It feels like an adventure. Driving meant being in a constant state of stress and danger.

Any tips?

Make sure you eat enough, cycling takes a lot of energy.