Families are being encouraged to get on their bikes in and around St Albans as part of the summer programme of Sky Ride Local cycle rides.

The free cycles rides, which are guided by trained British Cycling ride leaders and range from easy-going spins to challenging rides will begin on Sunday,  June 1.

The first rides in St Albans District are:

  •  'Nickey Ghost Trail'; a seven-mile route on 2pm on Sunday, June 1

Starts and finishes from Harpenden Leisure Centre, Leyton Road, Rothamsted Park, AL5 2HU

  •  'Chugging along the Nickey Line to Harpenden'; a nine-mile route at 2pm on Sunday, June 8

Starts and finishes from Redbourn Village Hall Car Park, 63 High Street, Redbourn, AL3 7JX

  •  'Highfield Park to Alban Way'; a five-mile route at 2pm on Sunday, June 15

Starts and finishes from Highfield Park Leisure Centre, Russet Drive, St Albans, AL4 0DB

The programme is organised by British Cycling and Sky, in partnership with Hertfordshire County Council and St Albans District Council. The free cycle rides are guided by trained British Cycling ride leaders and range from easy-going spins to challenging rides.

Peter Cox, British Cycling's Recreation Manager for Central Region, said: "Cycling has never been more popular, and it's easy to get involved whatever your age or fitness level. We're delighted to be working with St Albans City and District Council to make it even easier for local people to get out on their bikes and have some fun this summer."

To book your place visit www.goskyride.com or contact Ann Austin, the council's Community Project Officer, on 01727 819 320.