A LOCAL cycling club is encouraging youngsters to take to get involved with the sport.

The sport has grown in popularity since the 2012 Olympic Games with over 100,000 more cyclists riding bikes at least once a week than there were in October 2012.

Dan Lewis, youth co-ordinator at the Royal Dean Forest Cycling Group says the Forest offers great cycling routes and hopes more youngsters will take up the sport.

He said: “We have full British cycling Go-ride accreditation. We offer a safe and supportive environment for young people to take part in cycling and can help develop their skills.

“As a club we are fully inclusive and aim to give all young people the opportunity to enjoy the sport regardless of background. As long as you have the basics of riding a bike we can offer activities and support to help you improve and have fun. Our key volunteers are all DBS checked and trained to national standards for the roles that do.

“Every fortnight we hold an activity specifically for young riders and some senior’s events are also open to younger riders.

Anyone wishing to join the cycling club can do so buy calling Dan Lewis on 07528860015 or visiting www.rdfcc.org.uk .