FOLLOWING the success of British athletes in the cycling events at the Olympics, cycling for fun and fitness has seen a surge of interest.

Now the team at Moreton Sports and Community Centre has been able to buy ten specialised bikes — static bikes with graduated tension levels, adjustable to suit each rider — thanks to financial support from the Devon County councillor for Bovey Rural ward, George Gribble.

The centre is able to offer a low impact form of exercise and training, for local people to improve their overall fitness and health, with supervised classes three times a week.

Kate Hocking, centre manager, said: 'As well as being perfect 'indoor training' for cyclists, it is definitely a great way to burn calories and increase cardio-vascular performance, as well as being fun, in a supported and encouraging class.

'We have lots of laughs but just three weeks in, participants are also starting to see the health benefits.

'Demand has been tremendous, with our initial plan of two classes per week quickly going up to three.'

Cllr Gribble said: 'The centre at Moreton has always delivered far beyond expectations of a small community sports centre.

'After the success of the Olympic cyclists and with a growing problem of finding alternative ways of improving people's health and fitness in our communities, I thought this was a wonderful plan and deserved support, so that as many people as possible can benefit.

'As the centre is locally owned and run, not a council operation, it has to work hard for every penny, so I am glad to be able to contribute to new kit that can be used by people of all ages, at any time of the year'

For further information or to book your place, see the website: www. moretonhampstead-devon.co.uk or call 01647 440107.