GUIDED rides through the Wiltshire countryside are being launched next month as part of British Cycling’s Sky Ride Local programme.

The popular programme of rides, organised by British Cycling and Sky in partnership with Wiltshire Council, kicks off on June 8 in Trowbridge with rides planned for Devizes, Chippenham and Salisbury later in the month.

Jonathan Seed, the council’s Cabinet member with responsibility for leisure at Wiltshire Council, said: “The Sky Ride local programme provides an excellent opportunity for people who have always thought about starting cycling to get on their bike and get involved. This nationally recognised programme was a massive success when we launched it here in Wiltshire last year.”

British Cycling has worked closely with Wiltshire Council to break down some of the barriers that prevent people from cycling more often, such as lack of routes, safety and having someone to ride with. All the rides are guided by trained British Cycling ride leaders, who are on hand to offer encouragement and support throughout the ride.

More than 500 people took part in the council’s Cycle Wiltshire event in Salisbury on May 3 and 4.

The Salisbury ride will be offering a seven-mile route on June 12, starting at 6.30pm.

Jo-Anne Downing, British Cycling’s recreation manager for the south, said: “Cycling’s never been more popular, and whatever your age or fitness level, it’s easy to get involved.”

To register of find out more about Sky Ride Local go to goskyride.com/wiltshire.