October is the month for local Skyrides

Those who attended the Skyride City events, and those who couldn’t make them, need not worry if they want to keep riding or if they missed out. Because while the Skyride City events for 2009 may have come to a close, that's no reason to get off your bike.

The fun continues every Sunday this month with small group rides, led by fully trained British Cycling experts. It's free to participate and there's something for everyone from beginners to pedalling pros.

All four Skyride cities – Glasgow, Leicester, Manchester and London – have local smaller Skyrides running in October.

The organised events are taking place until October 25 and are being supported by British Cycling and, for the London rides, the Mayor, Boris Johnson. They are being led by fully-trained cycle leaders from British Cycling and will take in everything from the countryside and local sights, to historical and art tours.

They all start this Sunday, and while a few rides are full there are still plenty to choose from. In Glasgow there is a ride round Kings Park, while in Leicester there is a traffic-free ride along pathways in Abbey Park.

If you’re in London, you can head to the figure of eight ride through Richmond Park, and keen cyclists in Manchester can join the ride at Cringle Park, which is a largely off-road route, cycling to an unspoilt park using a railway path, cycle paths and minimal estate roads.

Part of Sky’s cycling initiative, Skyride, was to encourage people to get back on their bikes.  Tens of thousands of people of all ages and abilities have enjoyed fantastic days out in Manchester, Hounslow, Glasgow and Leicester since July.

For full details on all the local rides and for free registration visit www.goskyride.com.