A GROUP of women from across Malvern have gone from ‘couch to 50k’ in ten weeks after completing a beginners cycling programme.
The course, from May 2 to Sunday, was set up by Malvern Hills District Council and was aimed at helping participants lead a more active lifestyle, improve their fitness and well-being and build their confidence and stamina on a bike.
The grand finale saw the group cycle from Malvern to Worcester, via Upton, Welland and Hanley Swan and with a stop off at Croome for coffee and cake.
Riders received a certificate and badges and achieved their level two and three Bikeability.
Participant Clara Penn said she was thrilled to become a cyclist and urged others to give it a go.
“I hadn’t rode a bike for seven years, and the first week I was really nervous just riding 100 yards down the hill to the venue – now just ten weeks later I’ve done 50km.”
She added she had also gained the confidence to tackle the busiest roads and was a lot fitter.
Coun David Watkins, portfolio holder for healthier communities at Malvern Hills District Council, said: “This programme was a really effective way to help people get active, build confidence on the road and improve cycle skills, as well as exploring the beautiful Worcestershire countryside.
“It is a great achievement and the group should be really proud of themselves.”
