CYCLISTS are back in the saddle again with help from Inverclyde Bothy.

The team at the walking and cycling group, based at Gourock pier, have restarted their led cycle rides, e-bike trials and confidence building sessions.

Inverclyde Bothy co-ordinator Lorna McCartney says she's thrilled that the wheels are set in motion again - and she is expecting to see an increase in demand from bikers of all ages.

Now that the pandemic is being suppressed Lorna wants to reinforce the benefits of cycling for health and for the environment.

She said: "Figures show that cycling in Scotland has grown 47 per cent over the past 12 months, and we've definitely seen more people out and about enjoying the benefits of it in Inverclyde.

"Cycling is excellent exercise - it improves physical and mental health and wellbeing, and reduces the risk of ill-health and premature death.

"Knowing you're doing your bit for the environment is so important too.

"We all enjoyed experiencing the clean, clear air during the first lockdown.

"It would be great to reduce traffic congestion in Inverclyde and we can do that by encouraging more people to travel by bike."

Qualified cycle trainers at the Bothy take people out on led rides and also offer sessions on electrically-assisted pedal bikes.

Better Biking sessions meanwhile help cyclists who are keen to get out cycling on roads but need to build up confidence and knowledge.

Lorna and the team plan to run family on-road cycling technique classes during the summer holidays and will also be working with NHS services across Inverclyde over the coming months.

Lorna said: "We're all about encouraging people to travel actively, whether walking or cycling, especially for short journeys.

"To anyone who is thinking about cycling - get in touch with us and give it a go.

"You have nothing to lose and a huge amount to gain."

To find out more about Inverclyde Bothy email thebothyinverclyde@cyclinguk.org or visit the organisation's page on Facebook.