OTLEY Cycle Club has received an equipment boost courtesy of Otley Lions.

The Lions have paid for four new bikes to help the club develop its involvement in cyclo-cross racing. The rapidly growing sport involves races on fields, school playing areas and parks and requires specialist bikes.

The four new bicycles will be made available for hire to six to 14-year-old club members to encourage them to try the off-road discipline.

Gareth Frith, of Otley Cycle Club, said: “This is really excellent news and on behalf of the club I would like to thank the Lions for their generous approach to this. I am sure it will be an excellent opportunity for the club to develop cyclo-cross and support the enthusiasm of the young riders who are keen to become involved in this.”

The bikes, Frog 70s and Trek Crossrips, were bought from Otley business and club sponsor Chevin Cycles, who provided them at ‘cost price’. Running since 1927, the club has more than 450 members, many of whom are under 16, and runs weekly coaching sessions for children during the summer. The cyclo-cross push is part of a drive to encourage even more local youngsters to take up the sport.