PEOPLE of all ages are being encouraged to get in the saddle to mark National Bike Week.

Darlington Borough Council is holding free events next week to encourage more people to take up cycling.

They start on Monday, June 13 with a doctor bike session for anyone who wants to get their bike checked out before they set off on the road.

Bike experts will be on the town hall forecourt between noon and 2pm.

Tuesday is ride to work day with a free breakfast between 8am and 9.30am outside the town hall for any council employee who arrive on their bike.

Staff at Darlington Memorial Hospital, West Park and Darlington Primary Care Trust will also be encouraged to bike to work.

On Wednesday, there is a guided ride around Walworth Gate from 6.30pm to 8.30pm including a stop for ice-cream.

The ride is suitable for families and riders are asked to meet at the Dolphin Centre.

On Thursday, there is a guided ride around Darlington from 12.15pm to 2pm starting at the town hall and including a free lunch at the Arts Centre.

Nick Wallis, the council's cabinet member for highways and transport, said: "There are so many benefits to riding a bike. It is good for your health and the environment and also a lot of fun.

"Bike Week is a great chance to get cycling whether you haven't been on a bike for years or already regularly cycle around town."