Ever wondered how your commuting experience differs to others? Each month we share the story of a real Cyclescheme cycle commuter and ask them seven questions to sum up their experience from their two-wheeled commute. This month, it's Gary from Manchester.

It's not often we get to hear, first-hand, how cycling to work can make a difference to your lifestyle. We all know that it's good for you and that it's environmentally responsible, but it’s always encouraging to hear a personal account from someone who has made the change from four wheels to two.

Each month we'll be featuring one Cyclescheme participant and hearing their story. We’ll ask the same seven questions (hence the name, The Cyclescheme Seven) in a bid to build up a picture of cycle commuters across the UK. From John O'Groats to Lands End we're scouring the country for the real cycle commuters who take to their bike each morning. We want to share the inspiring and, sometimes funny, stories that people have. If you'd like to feature on our website, just drop us a line on: socialmedia@cyclescheme.co.uk with "I'm in' in the subject line.

This month, we caught up with Gary from Manchester to find out how his cycle commute helped him lose 26 stone and save his life. You can read more about his amazing story over on his website. 

The photo that started it all. Gary at 34 stone.	Gary collecting his Pride of Tameside award after losing an astonishing 26 stone

CS: Where in the UK are you?
Gary: Just outside Manchester.

CS: What was your main motivation for getting a bike through Cyclescheme?
Gary: To save my life, lose weight and be around for my kids in the future. 

CS: What bike did you get and why?
Gary: Initially I got a MTB as that was about all that would hold 39 stone; I have since progressed to Road Bikes though

CS: How much did you spend with your Cyclescheme certificate?
Gary: Between £700 and £900

CS: How often do you commute to work by bike?
Gary: Every single working day, wouldn't have it any other way. Despite passing my driving test I wont be driving to work, regardless of the weather.
 
CS: Where do you commute from and to? 
Gary: Hyde to Manchester (short, winter route 6.5 miles, however in the summer I take in some of the superb roads we have and can do 20 miles before I even start work).
 
CS: How has cycling affected your daily life - do you feel healthier? Have you saved money?
Gary: Not sure about saving money but being someone who, because of cycling and nothing else has gone from 39 stone to 13 stone AND KEPT THE WEIGHT OFF for the last 12 months or so, I can safely say that cycling saved my life and ensured that my kids will have someone to look up to in years to come.

Why not check out Gary's entire journey through his amazing YouTube photo journey too!