AS A local group gears up for its annual mountain bike challenge, it seemed apt for them to welcome a guest speaker on a similar theme recently.

Borderland Rotary Club welcomed James Davies, from Mule Cycles in Oswestry, to talk to members ahead of the club's annual Mountain Bike Challenge, which will be held at 10am on Saturday, May 13 and starting, as usual, from Rhiwlas Village Hall.

Mule Cycles has been a sponsor of the event for the last few years and Mr Davies' technical input has been invaluable.

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He also discussed the launch of a new initiative called Cycle to Work Friday.

He said: “The plan is to encourage cycle owners to use their bikes to go to work on Fridays and suggest to the businesses they work for to get involved and facilitate this.

“It’ll be good for your physical health; mental help and you’ll be helping the planet as well.

“I’ve already had some very positive feedback and in fact, I see that someone here tonight who has already signed up to the scheme.

“Although there aren’t many dedicated cycle paths in the centre of Oswestry, there are some on the industrial estate and I’m sure there will be more in the future”.

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James has been helping those who can’t afford bikes by fixing up old or unwanted cycles and getting them back on the road and available for those in need, and Borderland has donated to help this project along.

He added: “If you already have a mountain bike, why not get involved with the challenge, and help Midlands Air Ambulance to keep flying”.

For more details you can visit www.borderland-mtb-challenge.org