Saddle up and skedaddle!

Cycle Southend has just launched a new season of these hugely popular bicycle outings, which are aimed at encouraging people to get fit, make new friends and re-kindle their liking for biking!

This time the trips include:

·         Get Fit and Fabulous rides - leaving from Southend Pier every Saturday at 9am, they take a different route each time and are led by trained cycling instructors

·         Pedal Back the Years - gentle rides designed for the mature cyclist, the first of these leaves from Southend Pier at 11am on Tuesday 9th November

·         Informal mountain bike rides - leaving from the ReCycle Centre, 2 Brunel Road (off Progress Road), Leigh, at 9am on Saturday mornings, these are for people who are new to off-road riding but who have a sense of adventure AND own bikes with knobbly tyres! The rides are NOT led by an instructor and, though inspired by Cycle Southend, are not run by Cycle Southend.

·         A spectacular 80's-tastic Bright Ride - this leaves Southend Sealife Adventure on Eastern Esplanade, Southend, at 7pm on Friday 12th November. The aim of the game is to be as bright as possible - neon, shoulder pads and fluorescent leg warmers are a must!

Southend-on-Sea Borough Council's Executive Councillor for Transport and Planning, Mark Flewitt, said: "Congratulations to Cycle Southend for finding such inviting ways to encourage people back into the saddle! There really is a ride for everyone among these fun, friendly and healthy bicycle outings.

"They offer a terrific way to help boost energy and fitness levels, improve balance and coordination, strengthen the heart and reduce blood pressure.

"These rides are designed for all abilities, but especially cater for beginners. They last from one and a half to two hours, with regular stops."

Those wishing to join one of the rides should call 01702-215338 or e-mail cyclesouthend@southend.gov.uk For more information about Cycle Southend visit http://www.cyclesouthend.co.uk/