Fun guided bike rides are coming to Lancashire

Sky Ride Local rides are coming! If you’re keen to get out on your bike a bit more this summer, but don’t know where to start, this new series of free bike rides in Lancashire could be the answer.

In partnership with Lancashire County Council, Blackburn with Darwen Council, Blackpool Council, British Cycling and Sky, an exciting series of guided bike rides have been scheduled in every local authority area in the county 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.’

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."

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.

To register for a free guided bike ride and find out more about getting into cycling, visit: www.goskyride.com/Lancashire

Upcoming rides in central Lancashire include:

• Saturday 26th March: Chorley Grand Prix Family Ride – Astley Park Potter – 3 miler
• Sunday 3rd April: Astley Park Potter – 3 miler.  Another chance to do this ride for those who want to get out on their bikes the week after the Chorley Grand Prix!
• Sunday 3rd April: South Ribble – Bamber bounce – 7 miler
• Sunday 3rd April: Preston – Guild north explorer – 16 miler
• Sunday 17th April: Whittle-le-Woods circular – 11 miler

ENDS

For more information, please contact:
Angela Sinclair, Communications Officer, Preston City Council
[email protected] 01772 06476