AN initiative to get youngsters on two wheels has been hailed a success after dozens of children learnt to ride a bike.

A team of young volunteers from Carmel Cycling Club joined Darlington’s sustainable transport team, Local Motion, to help 43 children say goodbye to stabilisers for good.

It took place in the Dolphin Centre’s Central Hall, and the children, aged from three to eight, were first encouraged to improve their balance and gain confidence on balance bikes before progressing to using pedals.

The event built on Local Motion’s first learn-to-ride event held in South Park in September, which saw almost 50 children receive individual coaching from cycling experts.

Local Motion cycling officer Kevin Kilcullen said: “We quickly realised that there is very high demand for this kind of support in helping kids get going without stabilisers.

He added: “We want people to be safe as well as confident.

“Plus, the more people that cycle in Darlington, the fewer vehicles there are on the roads, which is good news for everyone.”

A further Learn to Ride event planned for December is already fully booked, so organisers are looking to run an additional session during February half term.

Parents are advised to keep up to date with Local Motion’s news and activities at www.dothelocalmotion.co.uk or at facebook.com/dothelocalmotion