Lashing rain failed to dampen enthusiasm when Crank it Up Cycling Opportunities for All staged the first of two Ride and Try' sessions for over-50s.

Chris Evans, of Crank it Up, said the first participant to arrive had not ridden a bicycle for more than 45 years.

"On reading of the session in the Telegraph & Argus, he went in to his shed, repaired his bike and cycled to the session," he said.

"Despite the rain many of them rode the various types of bike around the park and really enjoyed themselves.

"Not only were people interested for leisure but also to help their health. Just over 20 per cent of those who came along had problems with their legs and wanted to try cycling to build their leg strength."

A second Ride & Try event will take place at the Richard Dunn Sports Centre from 3pm to 6pm on Wednesday.

Participants will be able to find out about the health and leisure benefits of cycling and find out about what models are suited to their age range.

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