THE Swindon Sky Rides campaign was just the impetus the Melrose family needed to get on their bikes last summer – and now they are urging other families to sign up ahead of this year’s events.

Mum-of-two Claire Melrose, from Penhill, hadn’t put foot on a pedal since childhood but was persuaded by her husband Will to give it a go.

Now she owns more bikes than Will and can’t wait to join in the cycling festivities with Sky Rides, which start next month, with her whole family.

The 32-year-old said: “Although I was a bit anxious at first, I took to it straight away and absolutely loved it.

“We ended up joining a Sky Ride every weekend because it was so much fun and a great way to spend quality time with the kids.

“You get to see all the beautiful parts of Swindon and feel so much fitter for it. I can’t recommend them highly enough.

“My new hobby came as a complete surprise. I would never have dreamed of doing this, let alone enjoying it. But I regained my confidence in no time and discovered that there were so many benefits.

“I lost a stone over the summer last year and felt amazing.”

The guided rides cater for all ages and abilities. Book at www.goskyride.com/swindon.