A SERIES of guided Sky rides are encouraging people in Bradford to explore new parts of the district this summer.

A series of Wildlife and Wilderness-themed rides are being organised as part of a British Cycling initiative pushing pedal power and taking in the sights of nature reserves, urban farms and conservation areas.

The rides – led by British Cycling trained ride leaders – are designed to show people do not have to be in the middle of nowhere to enjoy getting off the beaten track.

Peter Haymes, British Cycling’s recreational manager for Bradford, said: ‘Seeing your town or city by bike is a great way to really get to know it. There is so much planning that goes into all of our rides and it’s great to show off some undiscovered parts of Bradford by bike.

"We have rides taking place throughout the summer in Bradford, so whatever your current level or ability you can always find more rides, see more and fall in love with life on the bike!’

And Councillor Imran Khan, Bradford Council’s executive member for environment and sport said: ‘We are lucky because we have beautiful countryside within our District which people can explore on two wheels thanks to these local guided rides.

!It’s an ideal way to find out new routes that take in some wonderful sights including wildlife which can be found in abundance on our moors and on the Leeds and Liverpool Canal towpath for instance.

"These rides, run by experienced cyclists, cater for all abilities so get yourself along and enjoy.’

Part of a national campaign to get more people cycling for fun and fitness, Sky Ride Local offers a fantastic range of free guided bike rides throughout the summer months.

Wildlife and Wilderness rides are just one of six themed rides, all new for 2015. Other themes include; City Streets and Park Life, History and Heritage, Local Pride, Waterways and Woodlands and Eat, Drink, Ride.

The first Wildlife and Wilderness Sky Ride is this Sunday leaving at 10am from the Bowling Pavillion car park at Lister Park in Manningham. The level is steady and will cover 16 hilly miles climbing out of the city to Allerton and into the countryside before looping back to Lister Park - helmets are essential.

The big Sky Ride is on Sunday, September 20, when Bradford will become traffic-free and thousands of cyclists are expected to turn up and take part, places are unlimited and the route passing various city landmarks will be ongoing, say organisers.

Last year saw six times Olympic cycling gold medallist Sir Chris Hoy, a Sky Ride ambassador, wave off the first of the 6,500 riders who turned out for the event in Bradford.

To find out more about the 2015 rides go to goskyride.com.