A WIRRAL club which encourages women to get on their bikes as a social way to exercise has celebrated its fifth birthday.

Wirral Bicycle Belles, which is supported by Sustrans and partners, meets on a Saturday morning each month for sociable bike rides using quiet, cycle-friendly routes.

The group started in 2010 with just 10 women and a five mile cycle but now includes more than 80 women with distances ranging from a few miles to up to 25 miles, depending on ability.

Janet Gregory, who started the group, said: “Women want to get more active on their bikes whether that’s for short every day trips or the more challenging competitive events. Our free goodie bag contains top tips about cycling safely.

“It’s fun, friendly and we now have a great bunch of volunteers who help with the group.”

Wirral Bicycle Belles received a small start-up grant from CTC. The group has also been supported by Wirral Council, NHS Western Cheshire and Sustrans. 

Each session ends with the cyclists visiting a cafe for coffee, tea and cake.

If you would like to find out more about Bicycle Belles please contact: Janet Gregory janet.gregory@sustrans.org.uk 0750 055 9669 or janet.gregory@ctc.org.uk 0771 928 2243.