YOUNGSTERS in Darlington can get on their bike for a free learn-to-ride drop-in cycling session this weekend.

Members of the Local Motion team from Darlington Borough Council will be in the town's South Park from 2pm to 4pm, on Saturday (September 13).

Budding bikers can get some hands-on help from the experts to make the move from balance bike or stabilisers to a pedal bike.

Cycling officer Kevin Kilcullen with be joined by coach and club members from 4Motion Darlington and young volunteers from Carmel College Cycling Club to guide children through the steps to stabiliser-free pedalling.

Riders from 4Motion will have just finished competing in the final round of the national 4X mountain biking trials and will have many expert tips to share.

All cyclists are advised to bring their own helmets.

Participants will also be able to enjoy free light refreshments after their exertions.

It is hoped that more families will feel able to cycle to school rather than drive, reducing the congestion on Darlington’s roads and making the town a safer, greener place to live.

The event organisers are seizing on the cycling fever that has gripped Darlington this summer with recent figures showing a 24 per cent increase in cyclists in the town.

For more information, visit dothelocalmotion.co.uk