British Cycling is calling on cyclists to sign up for free training as Ride Leaders to help it capitalise on the surge in interest in cycling following Great Britain’s Olympic and Paralympic success last year and of course Bradley Wiggins’ victory in the Tour de France.

The organisation says that its Ride Leadership Award “empowers and supports individuals to lead and deliver group bike rides in their local area and shares tips and advice on all practical aspects of a ride. No need to be a cycling expert, just be confident riding in groups and have heaps of enthusiasm. “

Courses are available in Dudley, Carlisle, Cheshire West and Chester, Coventry, Derby, East Berkshire, Essex, Havering, London, Knowsley, Lake District National Park Authority, Leicestershire, Lincolnshire, Newcastle, North Lincolnshire/NE Lincs, Nottingham, Somerset, Staffordshire, Torbay, Warwickshire and Wiltshire.

Joel Lavery, National Partnerships Manager for British Cycling commented: ‘2012 was a truly fantastic year for cycling, with Bradley Wiggins becoming the first British winner of the Tour de France, the success of Team GB cyclists at the Olympics and Paralympics and Sport England’s announcement that 200,000 more people are now cycling more regularly than in 2011.

“All aspects of cycling are booming and that’s why we’re particularly excited about the course and meeting the inspirational people who’ll be encouraging the local community to get on their bike and have fun.”

Following completion of the course, newly graduated Ride Leaders will receive free British Cycling membership and kit.

More details can be found at goskyride.com or by emailing //skyride [at] britishcycling.org.uk" target="_blank">skyride [at] britishcycling.org.uk to “tell us a little about yourself and why you would make a great Ride Leader and start the New Year with a bang.”