Over 40 residents have gained more confidence in bike riding thanks to successful cycling confidence and learn to ride events organised by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council.

In March, the council launched a new cycling initiative called Ready to Ride, aiming to help people feel more confident on a bike and choose cycling as a mode of transport more often.

The sessions are being run in partnership with Walk Wheel Cycle Trust and focus on beginners’ training, confidence-building and bike maintenance. Guided rides are also being held around Basingstoke for keen cyclists to brush up their skills, build confidence cycling in different environments and feel more comfortable riding with others.

This year’s sessions are primarily focused on residents in Popley and Oakridge with more events in other areas of the borough planned for 2027, including in South Ham, Buckskin and Tadley.

Residents can still take part before the programme wraps up for 2026, with guided rides on Wednesday 28 October and another cycle confidence and bike maintenance session on Saturday 14 November.

Cabinet Member for Communities, Partnerships and Inclusion Cllr John McKay, who attended the most recent event last Saturday (17 October), said: “It was great to experience the enthusiasm of everyone taking part. Cycling is a fantastic way to improve your health, save money on travel, and explore the local area.

“If you’re not so confident on a bike, this is a great opportunity to build your cycling skills and have fun at the same time. I encourage anyone who either wants to learn or wants to become more confident to look out for Ready to Ride events in their area and go along.”

Residents can find out more and book onto the two upcoming sessions at www.basingstoke.gov.uk/ready-to-ride.