A group of cycling enthusiasts hope to encourage more people to hit the road on two wheels.

The Carlisle Community Cycle Hub is helping people get active and, with a major sponsor in Cycling UK behind them and applications for more funding, the team is gearing up to host a variety of workshops, sessions and events which aim to get more people encouraged and interested in cycling.

The team of volunteers have met over 450 people since they started checking and fixing bikes back in June 2020.

The organisation currently provides free services such as bike checks, cycle maintenance lessons, bike loans and free 'taster' sessions, where interested parties can have a go at using electric bikes for a change.

Secretary Lance Greenhalgh said: “Our services are free of charge. We accept donations and are extremely grateful for them as it allows us to keep our service open to people who really need it.”

Lance said that because of Covid-19 the team hadn’t been able to have a real go at the business yet. He said: “We can fix the bikes and loan others but we can’t do big group sessions yet, which is something I’m looking forward to.”

Lance is excited for their social and family off-road ride events that will be happening on May 23 onwards.

The team will be taking riders of all ages and experience down the Caldew riverside path to Dalston and back (nine miles) or head north through Rickerby park.

From that date the team will also start pop-up bike checks and fixes around the city and put lessons on for Carlisle Youth Zone and schools in the area.

To borrow a bike, visit: https://www.carlislecyclehub.org