VOLUNTEERS are needed to saddle up and help young people and adults experience the joys of cycling.

The Wheels for All disability cycling scheme launches next month and volunteers are needed to dedicate 25 hours of their free time a year to help make the programme a success.

Wheels for All is part of a nationally recognised initiative to help disabled young people and adults experience the joys of cycling in a safe and supervised environment.

The activities use specially adapted bicycles and tricycles that are suitable for a wide range of abilities and individual needs.

The sessions started five years ago on a small scale during schools holidays and numbers attending has grown, leading town hall chiefs to expand the scheme.

Bolton Council has used £20,000 of short breaks funding to buy additional bikes so up to 35 people can attend the sessions, which will now be available throughout the year.

Sport England is also backing the scheme and has awarded it £9,645 for weekly sessions to be held.

They will begin the week starting March 10 at Leverhulme Park and will take place every Wednesday 6pm to 7pm and Thursday 10am to noon and at USN Bolton arena on Thursday 10am to 11am and 5.30pm to 6.30pm.

Organisers say that volunteers will be able to meet new people and make a difference to the lives of others.

They will receive training and funding towards sports qualifications. Their travel expenses will be covered.

Cllr Anthony Connell, Bolton Council’s Cabinet Member for Sport, said: “The Wheels for All scheme has been a huge success and we are delighted to support the expansion of the programme which helps more disabled people experience the joys of cycling.

“Activities like these could not succeed without the kind support of volunteers.”

For more information ring 01204 336843 or at jamie.agar@bolton.gov.uk.