IF you have been inspired by the Pedal Power campaign but may be a little nervous about venturing forth on two wheels then Get On Your Bike could be just the event for you.

The cycling-based fun day on Sunday, June 16, gives cyclists of all abilities chance to ride around the racing circuit at Oulton Park – far from potholed roads and traffic.

And on Monday, members of the event committee jumped on their bikes to try out the track in glorious June sunshine.

Four members of the committee, including myself, Tony Rickels, from Vale Royal Lions, Jessica Wilkes-Reading, from St Luke’s Hospice, and Gillian Edwards, from the North West Air Ambulance Service, rode the route, with vastly differing levels of enthusiasm and apprehension.

For Jessica and Gillian, this was the first time they had ridden a bike in about a decade.

Gillian said: “I was really reluctant at the start but as I built up confidence I was soon speeding down the hills and team encouragement kept us going too.

“Both Jess and I were the same ability so that was nice.”

Jess said: “The course is quite a challenge for new cyclists.

“I thought it was going to be quite easy then the first hill was a killer – overall I had to get off and push twice.

“But it’s nice and safe and controlled and the track is nice and smooth.

“If you want to stop you can, no-one’s going to tell you to get out of the way, although we did get some stick off the men repainting the rumble strips on one of the hills.”

The track is built into the undulating contours of its beautiful parkland setting, providing a couple of challenging hills, some invigorating downhills and the Shell Oils corner with its speed-inducing camber.

Tony Rickels, a more experienced cyclist, thoroughly enjoyed the trial run.

“I think it’s superb, brilliant,” he said.

“It’s a delight to go round it because the surface is so good and it’s got such good bends and hills.”

The event is a fundraiser for Vale Royal Lions, St Luke’s Hospice, the North West Air Ambulance Service, the Neuromuscular Centre and the League of Friends for Tarporley War Memorial Hospital.

Cyclists can arrive and ride on the day for £10 for over 14s, £5 for under 14s and free for children under five.

Parking is free and entry is free for spectators.

A variety of stands, attractions, barbecue and refreshments will also be available.

For more information click here.

See below for a video of the Get On Your Bike organisers enjoying a spin on the hallowed tarmac