35,000 pupils are told to cycle

More than 35,000 school children will be told to get on their bikes as part of a big expansion in cycle training over the next two years.

The initiative, launched today, will roll into about 200 primary schools and see the creation of 100 community cycling clubs.

British Cycling's Go-Ride scheme aims to combat the increasing problem of child obesity by encouraging children to lead a more active lifestyle.

Peter Keen, a former coach of the British cycling team, said: "Cycling can be the antidote to the computer game. But lack of proper training is a major stumbling block to participation."

The Go-Ride programme uses qualified coaches to give young people aged six to 18 essential cycling skills.