Women who want to try mountain biking for the first time, or experienced female riders wanting to refresh their skills, are being invited to three guided sessions on the famous 7stanes trails.

The three sessions, the first on 23rd January at Ae Forest, will give female cyclists the chance to learn basic mountain bike riding techniques and bike repair.

Ruth Asbery, one of the female tutors for the sessions said: “These events are the perfect opportunity for women to try cycling. The main aim is to have a fun day with no pressure and learn more about mountain biking and how it can be an easy way to improve your fitness.”

The events are being organised by Forestry Commission Scotland, Dumfries and Galloway Council and Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland.

Doug Knox, the Commission’s cycling manager in South Scotland, added: “The events are being put on to encourage more women to take up cycling in Dumfries and Galloway. There are so many great 7stanes trails to be found in the area and these events are designed to women give that first step into biking.

“Hopefully by the end of these three taster sessions, those taking part will have enough confidence to sign up with their friends and families to take part in the British Heart Foundation’s 10km charity cycle at Kirroughtree, near Newton Stewart, on the 26th of March 2011.”

The first Women on Wheels event is to be held at Ae Forest near Dumfries on Sunday the 23rd of January and will include:

• A ‘have-a-go’ circuit within the forest car park
• Guided forest cycle rides in small groups with a local female tutor
• Lunch and refreshments provided by the Ae Bike Shop and Cafe
• A lunchtime talk from the inspirational charity cyclist Mavis Patterson (AKA Granny Mave)
• Basic bike maintenance tuition.

Following this event there will be a further two optional events at Mabie Forest (20th Feb 2011) and Kirroughtree Forest (13th March) where those who took part in the first event can join in organised rides with the same female tutors.

Interested? Head over to www.7stanes.gov.uk/womenonwheels