This summer holiday Island youngsters and families can sign up for Bikeability cycle safety courses or even just drop by for a free bike check.
During August, children aged eight to 12 and families can learn to cycle safely on Island roads thanks to the Isle of Wight Council’s team of cycling instructors.
Instructors will teach children road safety skills, under the national Bikeability cycling scheme.
Alec Broome, sports development officer at the council, said: “It really is worthwhile getting children signed up to one of our summer holiday Bikability courses. We are offering both Level 1 and Level 2 courses with prices starting from £10.
“We can teach children how to ride on the roads and grow their confidence; the children can also encourage their parents to ride with them.
“Getting some family Bikeability sessions can help inspire generations of a family to cycle safely together. Spaces on all our courses are limited so book before Monday 17 July to make sure you don’t miss out.
“Understanding the rules of the road and following them makes the road a safer place for all road users.
“You can also get your bike checked for free at one of the Dr Bike drop in sessions — no booking required.”
The council has also partnered with Adrian’s Bike Shop to offer free bike safety checks and services to local children. A qualified mechanic will be available at 1Leisures Medina Leisure centre in August.
Previous feedback from one parent: “The free bike check has given me peace of mind that my daughter’s bike is as safe as can be for her to ride now, especially after a few months of it not being used through the winter.”
Councillor Julie Jones-Evans, Cabinet member for leisure, said: “It’s a great course that gives children the opportunity to practice real life road safety, such as navigating junctions and road positioning. Regular active travel can also help children develop positive habits that are useful now and in the future.
“We hope theses courses will give children both the confidence and skills to consider cycling to and from school in the future rather than by car, as well as taking steps towards improving children’s physical and mental health.”
Councillor Jonathan Bacon, Cabinet member for the environment, said: “Not only are we teaching children to be safer when out cycling, but we are also promoting our Active Travel scheme which aims to get all members of the Island’s community travelling in active ways that are better for their own health and local air quality, as well as reducing congestion.
“Active travel is better for the planet and all the life that it sustains.”
Road safety cycle training, booking required
Level 1 – 7 August
£10 per person. Two-hour course in a playground environment. Morning and afternoon sessions available.
Level 2* – 8 and 9 August
£15 per person. Four-hour course on local roads. Morning and afternoon sessions available.
*Rider assessment required prior to level 2.
Combined level 1 and 2 – 7, 8 and 9 August
£20 per person. Riders to attend all three days.
Family sessions
£15 per family. Three-hour session, morning and afternoon sessions available. contact us for more information.
The closing date for sign up to courses is 5pm on Monday 17 July
Dr Bike – free bike check, drop-in service no booking required
Medina Leisure centre, 9am to 2pm
Monday 7 August
Monday 21 August
Email sports.unit@iow.gov.uk or call 01983 823818 to book a course.
*limited space available and booking is required.
