A SERIES of bike rides have been organised in an attempt to get people fit and active.

Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council's Health Improvement Team has joined forces with Middlesbrough Environment City to offer the free guided rides.

Running from October to November, the rides, led by fully qualified British Cycling leaders, take in a variety of terrains and settings from coasts and urban cycle paths to woodland trails.

Cllr Carl Quartermain, the council's cabinet member for jobs, skills and leisure, said: “This is a great way of getting more people out on their bikes and enjoying everything Redcar and Cleveland has to offer.

“With experienced cycle leaders on hand to offer some words of wisdom, cyclists will pick up some tips that could prove to be valuable in the future so I urge everyone to sign up and come down.”

The three week programme will begin on Friday, October 2 at 10am outside the Stray Café with another ride at 10am on Friday, October 9 outside Saltburn Leisure Centre. The final ride takes place at 10am on Friday, October 16, at Guisborough Forest and Walkway.

As well as guiding the rides, the British Cycling Leaders will also be on hand to offer training and bike maintenance tips to keep bikes in top condition over the years to come.

For more information or to book a place call Stephen Mussett on 01642 837766.