The organisers of a popular north-east cycling race have launched a new event for children.
The Methlick Cycle Challenge, which took place in July, saw more than 100 entrants participate in the 73-mile ride in aid of armed forces veterans.
And now, shorter courses for primary six and seven and first and second-year pupils, featuring two different routes, have been devised for youngsters.
The Methlick Junior Cycle Challenge will be held on October 2 at 12pm with the route taking cyclists through Skilmafilly by Skelmonae Wind Farm.
Entry is free, but a parent or guardian’s signature is required.
Yesterday, officials explained they had launched the new event in response to public demand.
Boyd Ross, liaison officer for the organising committee, said: “We were looking for something that is completely off road and convenient for people in Methlick and decided this would be an ideal route.
“We’ve spoken with primary schools and academies and I think this will be a great event for 9-14 year olds to get involved in.
“It’s not on roads, so it is a very safe route, it is for children of all abilities and we just want them to have fun and get out in the fresh air.
“Ideally, we advise children to use mountain bikes or some kind of hybrid bike for the route and not just road bikes.
“The event is free to enter, but we will have collection boxes and they are all going towards the provision of a multi-sports court in Methlick.”
For more information on the junior cycle, visit: www.methlickcyclechallenge.co.uk
