Get on your bikes and ride!
Written by Shaun Moore on July 15, 2010
Anyone over the age of 9 years will be able to learn new skills or brush up on old ones at any of three summer cycling courses starting at the end of July.
Gloucestershire’s Road Safety Partnership has organised the courses at three locations. The courses take place over 3 days between 10am and 12 noon from 26th to 28th July at Minchinhampton School and from 2nd to 4th August at Cheltenham and Gloucester fire stations.
The cost of the course is £6 each and anyone over 9 years old and with a roadworthy bicycle can take part. Bookings must be made in advance.
Councillor Stan Waddington, Cabinet Member for the Environment, said: “It is so important to have cycling skills and road awareness before riding on the road.
“Many families will be out cycling together over the summer holidays and we want them to be able to cycle confidently and safely.”
Riders will be taken out on the roads in groups of 3 and will be matched up on abilities beforehand. If parents want their children to come, they can book on too and will be taught how best to ride as a family.
The cycling scheme’s aim is to enable riders to:
· Know how to identify faults on their bike that affect their safety, and understand the need for the bike to be well maintained.
· Be able to ride their bike under full control when looking behind, manoeuvring, starting, stopping and signaling.
· Be aware of other road users and learn how to cycle on road in a variety of traffic situations.
· Be able to recognise potential hazards and to take action to avoid them.
· Understand the benefits of lights, reflectors, high-visibility clothing and helmets.
To book a place on the summer cycling course, or for more information call the Road Safety Partnership on 01452 425600.
