A NEW social cycling group specifically for women sets off on its first ride tomorrow night, Wednesday April 22.

Women on Wheels is aimed at those new to cycling or returning after a break and has organised a programme of rides over the summer catering for all levels and abilities.

The first, which starts at 6.30pm tomorrow from Hanley Swan, near Malvern is for those who have a good base level of fitness, but on Sunday, April 26, there will be a free beginners ride in Worcester. This will leave at 10am from the Pump Rooms Environment Centre at Gheluvelt Park and take in a traffic free route which will build confidence and develop group riding skills. The ride will start and finish at Gheluvelt Park and take in a number of dedicated cycle paths.

Women on Wheels co-founder Rachel Vann said: "This is a fantastic opportunity to find out more about Women on Wheels and enjoy a leisurely cycle ride in a safe environment with a group of like-minded ladies. Although the ride is aimed at beginners, we’ll have a number of ride leaders on hand on the day to talk about the group and the rides we have planned for the next few months.”

In addition to the beginners ride, the group will also be offering weekly fitness rides on Wednesday evenings. Aimed at those who already have a good base level of fitness, these rides cover a 12 - 14 mile loop to increase confidence on the road and improve fitness. The first fitness ride goes from Hanley Swan crossroads tomorrow night.

Since launching the group in October 2012, Ms Vann and co-founder Amy Taylor have seen a huge increase in numbers, resulting in several of the group undergoing training to become ride leaders.

Ms Vann added: "By helping some of our existing members to become ride leaders, we’re better placed than ever before to offer a regular programme of rides for a range of fitness levels and abilities. It’s a really exciting time for Women on Wheels, so we’re hoping to talk to as many women as possible on Sunday to really kick start our summer season.”

To sign up to either the beginners ride or the fitness ride, visit the Women on Wheels Facebook page at www.facebook.com/wearewomenonwheels or email info@women-on-wheels.co.uk