Matt Collas has become the second recipient of the relaunched Yellow Guernsey Award, presented by the Health Improvement Commission with support from the Better Journeys Project.
The award celebrates individuals who encourage walking, cycling and sustainable transport, with recipients presented with a bespoke Le Tricoteur Yellow Guernsey, inspired by the Tour de France’s famous yellow jersey.
Mr Collas took up cycling 10 years ago, after it was suggested to him during a Chest & Heart examination as an effective way to lose weight.
He said his passion for the sport ignited instantly, and became something he wanted to share with the community. Now he is best known for organising the popular Only Fools and Donkeys cycling events, which have raised thousands for local charities, including the accessible cycling group, Wheels for You.
‘I really enjoy the fact that I can do something that I really enjoy and then give back to society,’ he said.
‘I love the community aspect of cycling, and going on social group rides. And I love meeting people.
‘When you see what Wheels for You does for different people – whether they’re blind, or they’ve got Parkinson’s, had a stroke, or struggle with mobility issues, anything – and you see the enjoyment on their face to experience cycling again, it’s really special.’
Mr Collas published a book called Guernsey’s Cycling Climbs, which celebrated cycling in Guernsey and the exciting challenges its hills present for keen cyclists. He organises two annual events, open to riders of all abilities, that explore such routes.
His contribution extends behind the scenes, supporting the Better Journeys Project with traffic counting and data collection, creating the Guernsey Cycle Scheme and providing free graphic design work for community initiatives.
Through his work with Admiral Park Plaza, he has also organised free bicycle maintenance sessions to encourage more people to cycle.
Receiving the bright yellow accolade is an honour he said he intends to wear with pride.
‘I wasn’t expecting it at all,’ he said.
‘I was so chuffed when Alex Costen from HIC said I’d been nominated for it, because I’d seen the previous winners and they’re all pretty special people.’
Rollo de Sausmarez, director of the Better Journeys Project, said Mr Collas was a truly worthy winner of the award.
‘We look for true community champions who inspire others and drive change,’ he said.
‘Matt has all of those attributes in abundance and has been doing it all quietly for years.’
Health Improvement Commission active travel officer Amy Woollaston echoed the sentiment.
‘Matt contributes to cycling in Guernsey in so many different ways, often behind the scenes and without seeking recognition,’ she said.
‘He embodies the spirit of the Yellow Guernsey Award.’
The award was relaunched in July, when 18-year-old Monty Desforges was recognised for promoting active travel at the Sixth Form Centre.
It is funded by Mourant and the Tom Dorey Eco Legacy, a fund set up in honour of previous yellow guernsey winner Tom Dorey, who tragically died not long afterwards.
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