Female nightriders enjoy freedom on two wheels

A cycling scheme aimed at encouraging women to rediscover cycling for physical and mental health is proving a success across Cornwall.

Some of the rides are staged at night, with riders tackling off-road cycle trails using lights and volunteer guides to support them.

The volunteers and cyclists taking part in the Active Travel Social Project said it was a great way to meet people and boost mental and physical health too.

Cyclist Janet has been going on the rides for three years and said "it's quite different" cycling the Goss Moor at night, adding: "This group is very different and it's great that it's all-female."

She added: "You meet some wonderful people."

The group have cycled in the dark using moonlight and bike lights to guide their way on rides, which are part of a British Cycling-funded scheme.

Imogen Callaway, community developer from British Cycling's Breeze Network Devon and Cornwall, said: "It's completely free, there's no charge, there's nothing you need to pay."

She said the rides were "to encourage people to get out on their bikes in a safe welcoming environment".

The rides she was leading used hire bikes so participants "don't need anything".

She said: "You just turn up, as long as you tell us in advance."

Donna Daniels said: "It's a bit daunting at first. But we all stay together and you can see the bikes ahead and the lights.

"It is friendly and everyone's chatting. It's just great."

She said she got involved as "I just wanted to do as much exercise as I could and meet new people. I look forward to it each week."

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