A cycling club, a library and a group of creative minds have come together to produce an audio drama based on Clifton’s cycling past.

History Misbehaves: Spokes is a lively new production inspired by the Clifton Cycling Club archive that blends past and present through humour and community.

The drama will be broadcast on Jorvik Radio on Sunday, March 29 at 10pm.

Clifton Cycling Club, founded in 1895, kept a rich record of memories through poems, photographs, invitations and detailed scrapbooks—all now held at Explore York Libraries and Archives.

Among their traditions was the annual writing of a poem naming and celebrating each member.

Participants explored these archives over six sessions at Clifton Explore Library, and took part in writing exercises, storytelling and conversation—an atmosphere that would have felt familiar to those early cyclists.

Attendees wrote their own poems and character sketches, reimagining what life may have been like for cyclists traversing York’s streets and countryside over the decades.

Paul Birch, a professional playwright who developed the final script, said: “It was a joy to take such unusual and specific source material and turn it into something new.

“Creativity and history go hand in hand.”

The show is directed by Kate Valentine, who added: “We found the same grit, determination and sense of fun in our workshops that we saw in the archive.

“We hope listeners enjoy the journey.”

Participants praised the supportive, inclusive nature of the project.

One said: “I really enjoyed the opportunity to be creative with other people.

“It was so inclusive—I didn’t feel anxious at all.”

Another added: “It’s been quite therapeutic.

“It pushed me out of my comfort zone – in a good way.”

One participant summed up the project by saying: “It was brilliant to have new experiences and meet some lovely, talented people.

“Long may the funding continue—it’s important.”

History Misbehaves: Spokes was created with support from Digital Drama, Riding Lights Theatre Company, and Explore York Libraries and Archives.

It forms part of Explore York’s wider programme of creative activities, funded through Arts Council England’s National Portfolio.

Listeners can tune in to the broadcast on 94.8 FM, via app, smart speaker or online at www.jorvikradio.com.

The drama is also available as a podcast by searching History Misbehaves on a variety of podcast sites.