Life Cycles, a mountain bike shop based in Bolton, has branched out and now offers a range of courses tailored towards the need to further your maintenance and skills necessary to maintain your bicycle.

Courses are built around the different requirements of novice, intermediate and advanced cyclists, with one-on-one tuition available. All courses adopt a hands-on approach and the groups are kept small, just six for a skills course and three for a maintenance course.

As well as teaching you the ins and outs of looking after your bike, or teaching you such skills as cornering, climbing and descending, the price includes lunch and, splendidly, unlimited tea, coffee and biscuits. Online booking is available through www.lifecyclesmtbinstruction.co.uk, or phone 01204 494466 for more details.