Asian women from across Keighley are being given the opportunity to improve their health and fitness with the introduction of the “Fit Women Cycle Training” programme.

The programme aims to combine basic cycling proficiency with helping women to improve their fitness, maintain their weight and promote a healthier lifestyle.

More than 15 women took part in the first programme, which is being run in partnership with NHS Bradford and Airedale and the CTC Champion project.

The training, which began in late June, is made up of three levels which focus on improving balance, signal and manoeuvre, as well as giving women the confidence to get out and about on their own. The sessions are held at the Marley Sports Centre, Keighley, for two hours every week.

Fauzia Jabeen, community health development worker for NHS Bradford and Airedale, said: “Cycling is good news for the environment and your local community but the biggest benefit is for people themselves. Switching short journeys from car to bicycle will benefit your health and your community. You’ll be helping to reduce noise and air pollution as well as traffic congestion.”

The second part of the programme will start in early March. Anyone interested in taking part can contact Fauzia on 01535 338719.

l Keighley children are being urged to “Be Bright, Be Seen” this winter.

A massive Government campaign has been launched in the region to encourage youngsters to wear light and reflective clothing when out and about in the dark.

And motorists are being asked to take extra care.

Last year, 44 pedestrians and six cyclists, aged between six and 11, were killed or seriously injured in West Yorkshire.

The campaign — introduced to coincide with the clocks going back — includes TV, cinema and online adverts. Lifelike characters are being used to show the consequences of different road safety behaviour.

Phil Jones, regional road safety officer, said: “This campaign aims to deliver a serious message in an innovative, memorable way.”