YOUNG cyclists or those who want to learn how to ride a bike can benefit from a new programme of classes across Wokingham.

Building on the success of existing Bikeability programmes in schools of 10 and 11-year-olds, the new classes will reach out to a younger audience.

Some 150 children aged three and four have already had Bikeability-Balance training last month. Now a new programmed targeted at youngsters aged five to 10 is offering them the chance to master the basics with Bikeability Learn to Ride courses.

Jill Bissell, Wokingham Borough Council’s cycle training co-ordinator, said: “We are finding that there is a huge demand for beginner cycle training for younger children and we are very grateful for the Bikeability Plus grant which has enabled us to organise both the Bikeability Balance and Learn to Ride sessions.

“The key to learning is that we start the children off on balance bikes, with no pedals and no stabilisers, so that they learn to balance first and then glide with their feet up.
“Once they have mastered these skills, they can then make an easier transition to riding a bike with pedals.”

Cllr John Kaiser, executive member for highways on Wokingham Borough Council, said: “Starting to teach a child to ride a bike at a young age is a life skill which some children miss out on.

“We hope that the Bikeability Plus grant will get more children and families enthused about cycling and encourage more of the future generation to use cycling as a means of transport.

“This is just one of the schemes we offer to children of all ages to ensure they are safe and understand the importance of road safety.”

Bikeability Sessions will be held at the Finchampstead Baptist Church Centre and the Woodford Park Leisure Centre in Woodley.