THERE was plenty of pedal power in Clackmannan during a cycle leader training course at the end of last month.

Bike maintenance, balance, control and planning and leading rides were all on the agenda on Sunday, August 26.

Members of the Clackmannan Development Trust (CDT) were under the guidance of Cycling Scotland tutor, Drew Michie, for the session.

The organisation recently undertook a survey in the town to find out if people were interested in cycling and 98 per cent of those who were asked said they would like to attend led rides in the local area and 20 per cent would like to become cycle leaders.

Lesley Shaw, CDT community development officer, said: “Clackmannan is a fantastic place for cycling as it sits on the National Cycle Route 76: Round the Forth as well as access to; Gartmorn Dam, Dunfermline and Black Devon Wetlands – to name a few.

"Led rides can offer people the confidence to travel as part of a group, explore new routes and make new friend and its great way to boost health and wellbeing too.

"It is our hope that our project plans will help enable people to fall back in love with their bike and that this is just the start of more fantastic cycling things to come for Clackmannan.”

The volunteers aim to develop their leadership skills and routes over the coming months in preparation for offering regular rides – including a repeat of last years successful ‘Merry & Bright’ night cycle ride with Pedal 4th this December.

Anyone interested in becoming a cycle ride leader and assistant or bike maintenance should contact Lesley on 01259 219473.