City of York Council is inviting residents looking to get back in the saddle to its latest course.

Following the success of its Walk 2 Jog course, the council’s YorWellbeing service is launching the Sofa to Saddle course, a new eight week course to get residents back into cycling again and gaining the confidence they need to cycle independently.

It will be starting on Thursday 5 April at 6.30pm at York Sport. The first two sessions will be based at the track to build confidence and to allow people get to know their bike again and feel comfortable.

Councillor Nigel Ayre, executive member for leisure, culture and tourism said: “Following the success of our Walk2Jog courses it’s great to see a new course launched to get people cycling.

“Cycling can be a great way to get out and enjoy York’s amazing scenery as well as help people to get their recommended 30 minutes of physical activity a day. This course looks to build confidence among people and by the end will hopefully see them confidently cycling around York.”

The course will cost £20, participants will receive a free t-shirt at the end and are advised to bring their own bike.

Places are limited, for more information to book a place contact the YorWellbeing team on 01904 553377 or email yorwellbeing@york.gov.uk .