PENSIONER pedal power is taking off in York as new classes for the more mature cyclists are proving popular in the city.

Members of York's University of the Third Age group have been taking part in one of City of York Council's cycle training classes.

The council's road safety training co-ordinator Mieke Jackson was invited by the city's U3A branch to help members of its newly-formed cycling group to get back on their bikes.

Iris Wells, U3A member, said: "The U3A is a voluntary body set up for retired people who are keen to exercise their minds and bodies. We have just started a cycling group in York and this training session provided by the council will enable our members to feel more confident about getting back on their bikes".

Mieke's first training session was held at the Millennium Bridge, with experienced U3A cyclist Ken Thompson. They were joined by Diana Thompson and Barbara Davies who had not ridden a bike for 30 years. Their first trip was to Naburn and another is planned to Beningborough Hall.

Ken Spence, the council's road safety officer said: "Road safety training is very important to people who are either new or returning to cycling.

"Groups of all ages are able to benefit from the expertise within the team and the training that we offer gives the skills and confidence needed when cycling both on and off-road routes."

Updated: 12:30 Friday, June 28, 2002