Bike-ride challenge is an inspired idea

A CYCLING project designed to improve the fitness of residents and help them explore Oldham has been given an Olympic seal of approval.

The programme of free monthly cycle rides — led by experienced cycle leaders — has been granted the Inspire mark by the London 2012 programme.

Inspire recognises innovative and exceptional projects in the run-up to the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Inspiring Cycling Sundays aims to give people the opportunity to get out and about on their bikes across the borough and visit places that they wouldn’t normally get to. Launched in July as part of One Future — a groundbreaking scheme led by private-sector organisations and backed by Oldham Council — the scheme is already proving popular with cyclists of all ages.

British Olympic legend Lord Sebastian Coe, chairman of the London Organising Committee, said: “The Inspire programme is ensuring the legacy of the 2012 Games starts now as projects like Inspiring Cycling Sundays are enabling people in Oldham to make positive life changes.”

Councillor Hugh McDonald said: “Inspiring Cycling Sundays was launched less than a month ago but already it is getting people out and about on their bikes and this award is evidence of its success.

“Through the One Future partnership, the council and other organisations are committed to building a legacy for the borough and many more events will take place over the coming months.”

Jeremy Broadbent, chief executive of the Johnson Group and chairman of One Future, added: “As a keen cyclist, I’m delighted Inspiring Cycling Sundays has been granted the Inspire mark.

“Cycling is an easy and enjoyable way to be more active, plus, it’s free. We hope this recognition from Inspire encourages more Oldhamers to give cycling a try at one of the monthly events.

“A key ambition of the One Future project is to engage more people than ever through sport — this quality project sets a high standard and will help us in achieving our goal.”

One Future already has the backing of several home-grown ambassadors, including footballers Paul Scholes and David May, Corrie actress Shobna Gulati and journalist and TV presenter John Stapleton.

The free bike rides take place on the last Sunday of each month, from 10am to 2pm, at Alexandra Park.

For more information go to www.activeadultsoldham.co.uk.