NUMBERS of adults in the region learning to ride a bike for the first time are at their highest since 2019, new figures show.

Data reveals that since April last year, more than 2,500 free cycle training sessions – funded by West Yorkshire Combined Authority – have been delivered by partner organisations.

Over 1,000 people have benefited from the training, three quarters of whom were getting on a bike for the first time or were returning to cycling after many years.

And nearly 90 per cent of participants were women.

The training is provided by a number of organisations, including Cycle North and Bradford Capital of Cycling.

Relative to population size, Bradford district – together with Leeds and Kirklees – had the best take-up of sessions.

West Yorkshire's mayor, Tracy Brabin, said: "It’s wonderful to see adult cycle training back in full force.

"I firmly believe that cycling is for everyone, but not all of us got to learn to ride as children.

"If you’ve ever thought of cycling but don’t feel confident, I strongly urge you to give it a go – and thanks to the combined authority, it’s free.

"It’s also great to see so many women taking that first step. Data tells us that most regular cyclists in the UK are men, so this shows the value of the combined authority funding adult cycle training to reduce gender inequality in access to active travel.

"The freedom and independence of a bike can be so empowering. The more that people from all backgrounds can overcome barriers to take up cycling, the closer we’ll be to active travel being the natural choice for short journeys in West Yorkshire."

Graham Creaton, general manager of Cycle North, voiced his delight at the uptake.

He said: "The numbers speak for themselves. There is a great demand for cycle training across the region and we are making a difference to a lot of people’s lives. I’m really proud of the hard work our partners have put in.

"The system of the combined authority working with partners like Cycle North has proven to be effective – it’s community organisations that have the contacts to deliver effective training where it’s most needed."

For more details about the cycle training and how to take part, visit cyclecityconnect.co.uk/get-cycling/adult-cycle-training.

Provider organisations interested in getting involved, or anyone wishing to become an instructor, should email cityconnect@westyorks-ca.gov.uk for further information.