1,750 to get cycle lessons

1,750 Rochdale schoolchildren will get free cycle training after Cycling England awarded the borough £70,000.

The money will be used for much-needed training places on the Bikeability scheme, the new national standard for England.

Stuart Howarth, Senior Road Safety Officer from Rochdale Borough Council said that the courses are an excellent way to keep children healthy as well as safe.

“We are delighted that once again we can offer these places to youngsters and educate them on the rules of the road," he said. "The training will teach them to ride safely, navigate the roads and gain confidence cycling. It is also an excellent way for the children to do something active in their free time.”

It is part of the Government’s plan to tackle congestion and encourage healthier and active lifestyles as more children will be able to cycle to school safely once they have trained.

Each year local authorities can apply for the funding to offer training places; however this year saw an increase in the amount of money allocated to Rochdale. This means more places can be offered across the borough.