Free cycling training for children launched by Cheshire East

Cheshire East Council is offering free training to children looking to increase their confidence cycling on roads.

The sessions – which will run for two weeks at Cumberland Arena in Crewe and Macclesfield Leisure Centre on Priory Lane – start on Monday August 17.

Children will have the option of taking morning or afternoon sessions.

The authority says courses are aimed at children aged 11-16, who can ride a bike but need support to feel more comfortable on the roads.

Training sessions will begin in traffic-free environments to enhance basic skills needed for riding on roads such as signalling and looking over their shoulder.

Sessions will then progress to a light-traffic setting and introduce various elements such as road position, turning in and out of junctions and overtaking parked cars safely.

Councillor Mick Warren, Cheshire East Council cabinet member with responsibility for leisure, said: “It is vital we give young people opportunities to get out and be active in the school summer holidays.

“Naturally, this is even more relevant this year when we are still a little limited in what we can do and when we can do it.

“These lessons will be a real boost to a lot of young people and their families.”

Councillor Suzie Akers Smith, Cheshire East Council’s walking and cycling champion, said: “The training presents a great opportunity for children to get the skills they need to become confident cyclists, and by providing the classes free of charge, we know that anyone will be able to get involved.”

Training will complement a series of cycle-friendly infrastructure schemes that the council is introducing to improve facilities for cyclists across the borough.

Morning sessions will run from 9.30am-12.30pm, while the afternoon sessions will run from 1-4pm on Monday to Friday.

The only requirement for children taking part is that they bring their own bike and helmet.

Booking is essential for all sessions as places are limited.

For more information and a full breakdown of session dates and times, visit https://everybody.org.uk/what-we-offer/activities-for-kids/cycle-training-bikeability/