Lichfield District Council, in partnership with North Lichfield Initiative, Freedom Cycles and Staffordshire County Council, is once again inviting people of all ages to enjoy cycle rides on the first Sunday of every month throughout the summer and autumn.

The new season of free cycle rides is launching under the new name of ‘Cycle Rides for All’ on Sunday 1 May, when cycle leaders will guide a group of cyclists to Whittington and back.

The ten-mile ride will be at a gentle pace and everyone is welcome to join in, no matter their age or cycling ability.

Jerry Trill, Planning Officer at Lichfield District Council, said: “I am delighted to launch our new programme of cycle rides, and pleased to welcome five newly trained volunteer cycle leaders who will be joining the existing team of six. From May until October, we’ll be leading cycle rides to Whittington, Fradley Junction, Chasewater Country Park and Barton Marina. This year, we’re also running cycle rides through Beacon Park over the summer holidays, and hope lots of people take part and discover how much fun it is to cycle.”

The Cycle Rides for All will take place on the first Sunday of every month until the final ride of the season on Sunday 2 October. Children under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.

“If you want to join us, just book your place and bring your bike, safety helmet, a picnic and yourself to Freedom Cycles in Lichfield at 10am on the first Sunday of every month. If you don’t have a bike, you can borrow one of four new bikes that Staffordshire County Council has kindly loaned to us for the rides. Just call Just call Freedom Cycles on 01543 411633 to book a bike for free,” added Jerry.

The rides are taking place on the first Sunday of every month:

·       1 May to Whittington (10 miles)

·       5 June to Fradley Junction (10 miles)

·       3 July to Whittington (12 miles)

·       7 August to Chasewater Country Park (18 miles)

·       4 September to Barton Marina (20 miles)

·       2 October to Fradley Junction (10 miles)

For more information, or to book your free place on the Whittington cycle ride, please telephone Freedom Cycles on 01543 411633 or Jigsaw on 01543 253666.

Visit www.lichfielddc.gov.uk/cyclerides to find out more.