YOUNGSTERS are being given the chance to ditch their stabilisers during the school holidays and improve their cycling skills through the Women on Wheels Balanceability programme.

The course is a nationally accredited "learn to ride" programme mainly aimed at four to seven year olds, but tutors cater for older children too.

Course organiser and trainer Rachel Vann said: “We are also excited to announce that we are now a Bikeability Scheme Provider, so if your child missed out on getting their level one or two why not book onto a course with us over the summer holidays. However, all children must be able to ride a bike without stabilisers and also bring their own bikes."

Dates for the next courses, which take place at Sport Martley in Martley near Worcester, are: Saturday, June 25 from 10am-11am; Friday, July 29 10-11am and Friday, August 19 10-11am.

Level one courses will also take place at Sport Martley on Saturday, June 25 from 11.15am-12.45pm, Friday, July 29 from 11.15am-12.45pm and Friday, August 19 from 11.15am-12.45pm.

Level two courses will be held at the Pump House Environmental Centre , Barbourne, Worcester on Saturday, July 30 from 10am-12noon, Friday, August 12 from 10am-12noon and Friday, August 26 from 10am-12noon.

But it is not just children the Bikeability scheme can help. For women who missed out on getting their cycling proficiency award or simply want to gain more confidence on the road, Ms Vann and her team have organised a Bikeability level two/three course, which takes place on Saturday, July 16 from 10am -11.30am at the Pump House.

Ms Vann said: "We are proud to say we are registered as a Bikeability Scheme provider. Put simply that’s the modern cycling proficiency. These sessions are usually run in small groups of up to six women and are tailored to the needs of the group. They are designed for those people with limited experience of riding on the road who would like to build their confidence on a bike and find a safe route for journeys that they make.”

The courses are £15 per person and require a minimum of two people. For more information on courses, prices or to book an adult or child a place, email Rachel training@women-on-wheels.co.uk or visit women-on-wheels.co.uk.