Published Tuesday 15 March 2016 at 14:23
If you’re keen to get out on your bike a bit more this summer, but don’t know where to start, a new series of free bike rides in Lancashire are being launched.
Sky Ride Local rides are coming in partnership with Lancashire County Council, Blackburn with Darwen Council, Blackpool Council, British Cycling and Sky.
There will be an exciting series of guided bike rides which have been scheduled in every local authority area in Lancashire for 2016.
As part of a campaign to get more people cycling for fun and fitness, Sky Ride Local rides are guided by British Cycling trained Ride Leaders and cover a range of fantastic routes, giving you the opportunity to see your area by bike like never before.
What’s more, the rides are pitched at three different levels, so there’s something for everyone.
David Bourque, British Cycling’s Director of Recreation and Partnerships, said:
“There’s no better way to get outdoors, get some exercise and explore your local area with friends than on a bike ride. Join the fun and register for a Sky Ride Local bike ride taking place in Lancashire this summer.
“The rides begin on 26th March so there’s no better time to get on your bike. Whether you’re building your confidence or looking to challenge yourself, there’s a Sky Ride Local for you in Lancashire.”
Councillor Phil Riley, Executive Member for Regeneration, said: “We are delighted to work in partnership with British Cycling and partners across Lancashire to be able to showcase our fantastic cycling opportunities during this Olympic year.
“Cycling is undergoing a renaissance nationally and locally with more and more people joining local cycle groups and taking part in led rides.
“Cycling is a great fun activity that keeps you fit and healthy. In Blackburn with Darwen we have lots to offer in terms of cycling. Witton Park is now home to a dedicated cycle centre which has a stock of bikes for all the family to borrow, we have created a new BMX pump track and for the more adventurous riders we have challenging mountain bike trails set in the woods.
“We are also in the process of creating the Weavers Wheel cycle and walking network that will better link-up the borough and help make it accessible for all.
“Investing in cycling and the infrastructure to make it easier for people to cycle highlights the Council’s recognition of the importance cycling plays in journeys to work as well as the wider leisure and health benefits that cycling offers.”
Even more cycling opportunities are available in Lancashire this year with Breeze and Ride Social.
Breeze is the biggest national programme designed to inspire and support more women to ride their bikes. Breeze is led by women, for women. The programme is supported by a network of trained volunteers called Breeze champions who organise local guided rides on a weekly basis.
Meanwhile, discover more with Ride Social, Britain’s biggest social cycling community. Cycling is more fun when you do it with others and Ride Social allows cyclists to meet up, form groups and start riding together.
County Councillor John Fillis, Lancashire County Council Cabinet member for Highways and Transport, said:
“Increasing numbers of people are discovering the benefits cycling can bring for their physical and mental health, as well as the convenience of making short journeys by bike.
“We’ve made real progress in improving cycling facilities in recent years and this is due to continue in the future with further investment to improve on and off-road routes. The Sky Rides are a great way to experience cycling in Lancashire.”
To register for a free guided bike ride and find out more about getting into cycling, visit: goskyride.com/Lancashire.
Upcoming rides in Blackburn and East Lancashire include:
Sunday 17th April: Rossendale – Haslingden rivers, hills and mills – 11 miler
Sunday 17th April: Ribble Valley – Ribble Valley explorer – 31 miler
Sunday 24th April: Blackburn – Les tours de Lancs – 24 miler
Rides take place regularly until October.