A group of keen cyclists volunteered to go back into the classroom to learn how to teach others to take to two wheels safely.

The Ride Leader course was organised by Slough Borough Council’s sustainable transport team Better by and funded by the Access Fund.

It aimed to teach the 10 community volunteers how to guide, support and encourage others to get on their bikes for leisure rides and ultimately to gain the confidence to commute to work sustainably.

The teachers were from St George’s Church, Britwell, Freewheelers Cycling Club, Slough Gurdwara as well as individuals who just want to support cycling growth in the borough.

Misha Byrne, project manager for the Access Fund, said: “Being flat and compact, Slough is a great borough to cycle in.

“This initiative means we can train keen cyclists who can then go on to help those that need a little more support and encouragement.

“By joining a led ride with one of these newly trained teachers, inexperienced cyclists can really build up confidence and hopefully consider using their bikes for short journeys, instead of choosing to jump into a car."

Cllr Rob Anderson, council cabinet member for transport and environmental services, said: “It’s great to see people willing to give up their time to learn new skills so they can pass it on to others in their community.

“There are multiple benefits of people getting on their bikes. Getting over the first hurdle is becoming confident on two wheels and the more community volunteers we have, the more people we can help.”