Hollingworth Lake Water Activity Centre has been leading the way in water based activities across the North West for many years. Link4Life and the CTC have developed an exciting new cycling initiative, funded by the BIG Lottery, which aims to offer a variety of community based cycling activities which will include schools, community groups and individuals.

Saturday the 14th February 2009 saw the launch of the programme with a cycling open day promoting all aspects of cycling and set in the stunning lakeside location adjacent to the South Pennine Moors. Over 280 people attended from across the country travelling from as far a field as Surrey, North Yorkshire and the West Coast of Lancashire, though the majority were local cycling enthusiasts and families showing true dedication on such a cold windy day. Sessions included adapted bikes, pedal power smoothie maker, led rides on road and off road and cycle games.

There are a series of programmed sessions available that cover a variety of cycling activities from introductory sessions through to advanced rides. With the Pennine Bridleway, Mary Towneley Loop and Rochdale Canal as our playground we have something for everyone. All sessions are delivered by instructors qualified to CTC MTB guidelines.

Below is a brief snippet of activities that are available from the centre in the coming months:

Introduction to Mountain Biking
Ideal for those who can already ride and wish to take the next step to off road cycling. Topics will cover bike set up, identify locations, riding techniques and cycling skills.

Mountain Biking Improvers
Full day session catering for those with some off road experience and are looking to take part in a more challenging ride with support. Sessions will cover navigation, basic maintenance, more technical climbing and descending techniques.

Mary Towneley Loop Journey
A two day challenge ride following the infamous Mary Towneley Loop, cycling through different valleys and across open moorland. On completion a great sense of achievement will be gained.

Junior Mountain Biking Course
Three half day sessions that will look at cycling techniques, descending, journey planning and safety awareness. Session will take place in some of the best areas to challenge you.

Kids Club
Regular weekend Kids Club that offers the chance for youngsters to learn and improve new and basic skills.

Holiday Activities
Sessions in the school holidays that offer an introduction to mountain biking and improver sessions.

CTC and Link4 Life Development Officers can tailor cycling activities to fit individual group needs to provide new and interesting challenges, provide support and encouragement for all participants and most importantly support the young people having fun on their bikes in the outdoors.

For further details on this new and very exciting scheme contact CTC Cycling Development Officer on 01706 922055 or email Karen.carter@ctc.org.uk or contact Dry activities Development Officer on 01706 370499 or email Richard.lane@rochdale.gov.uk.

Or visit www.link4life.org or www.ctc.org.uk/rochdale.