PINT-SIZED pedal power is hitting top gear as youngsters learn how to ride a bike with help from a fully qualified instructor.

'Balanceability' sessions are running at Inverclyde Leisure's Lady Octavia Sports Centre throughout the summer, to give children aged four and above the confidence to go a bike without stabilisers.

Up to 10 youngsters at a time are taught by instructor Callum Boyle (pictured) using balance bikes and other equipment over the intensive week course.

Sessions are constructed around games, challenges and new experiences that are proven to achieve a natural progression of ability.

Greenock grandmother Irene Murphy says her four-year-old grandson, Daniel Jenkinson, loved the week-long course.

She told the Tele: "It's a great way for Daniel to grow in confidence as well as something for him to do during the school holidays.

"He has been on a bike before, but this will give him the skills to ride without his stabilisers.

"It's a fun activity before he starts in Gourock Primary after the summer."

The next session on August 2 is already fully booked, however David Macgregor, facility manager at the centre, says extra dates could be in the pipeline.

David said: "Children can come along for the week of sessions and be taught by our fully qualified instructor, Callum, in a safe environment.

"We are fully booked for upcoming sessions, but we're currently in discussions about rolling out other ones, including our eight week term-time courses."

David says it's great to see youngsters who have been going along grow in confidence as the week progresses.

He added: "They all have mixed abilities - some have never been on a bike, whilst others know how to with stabilisers.

"By the end of the week, they are filled with confidence and have the ability to go on their bike safely and in outdoor environments.

"They also get a certificate to recognise their efforts."