Cycle away the school holidays

With the summer holidays fast approaching, Lancaster City Council is encouraging youngsters to get out on their bikes with a range of fun training sessions for all ages and abilities.

Cycling is healthy and fun, but it’s best to learn how to do it safely. As part of the council’s Holiday Activity Programme, ‘Bikeability’ cycling courses are running throughout August and will take place at Salt Ayre Sports Centre.

‘Bikeability’ offers children aged between 9 and 16 years Cycling Proficiency for the 21st Century. This course takes place at Salt Ayre and on local roads and will give youngsters the skills and confidence to cycle in modern road conditions.

There are two four-day courses on offer: 2 – 5 August and 23 – 26 August. Children who would like to join the course must be able to attend every day over the four days. Each session will last two hours.

‘Cycle Skills’ is aimed at five to nine year olds who can cycle but want to improve their skills. This is a two hour session.

For younger children who cannot yet ride or are using stabilisers, there is a ‘Learn to Cycle’ course aimed at those aged 4 years and over. Pedals and stabilisers will be removed so that the children can learn to balance before they progress to pedalling.

All courses cost £6 and children must bring a roadworthy bike and suitable clothes for being outdoors. Children under 8 should be accompanied by an adult.

Also new this year is Family Cycle Skills - a chance for the whole family to learn together. This course takes place off-road, is open to all abilities and will be lots of fun, focusing on basic control skills, use of gears and riding on the roads. This is a morning or afternoon session, costing just £3.

• For more information or to book a place on any of these courses, contact Salt Ayre Sports Centre, Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm (7pm on Wednesdays) on 01524 842493.