A WOMAN in her 70s has been recognised as an “incredible ambassador” for cycling.

Jill Halton, from Marnhull near Shaftesbury, has been named in Cycling UK’s 100 Women in Cycling, celebrating her work in inspiring and promoting the activity for women.

A lifelong cyclist, the 72-year-old is currently a member of several local cycling groups and was previously a member of Cycling UK’s council.

Now she continues to lead rides and encourages and supports new members.

Following the news Jill said: “Gender, age, background become unimportant, what matters is the bicycle bringing us together. Being outside, exploring countryside, learning about cycle maintenance, keeping healthy and supporting each other.”

The avid cyclist was nominated by Mary Emerson-Reed, who said: “Cyclist to her bones, Jill’s first thought is ‘which bike shall I ride today?’. She regularly leads our club rides and takes beginners’ rides in the village.

“Now in her 70s she is worried about cycling too slowly for the club, but we’re all over 60 and quite pleased to be keeping up!”

Other Dorset women on the list include Carolyn Roberts from Christchurch and Hannah Attenburrow from Southbourne.

Helen Cook, Cycling UK’s head of engagement, said: “Every woman on our list is an incredible ambassador for women’s cycling, and with the surge in interest in cycling over the past few months we want to make sure women continue to get on their bikes and more women join them.”

The Women’s Festival of Cycling ends on Friday, for the full list visit cyclinguk.org