SAFE and easy guided cycle rides are to continue through the winter after proving popular with Pendle residents.

Pendle Forest Cycling Club will lead rides on the third Saturday of each month after being impressed with the friendly atmosphere created by autumn events. Each ride will start at Pendle Leisure Centre in Colne at 11am and will include a cafe-stop.

The routes will be off-road as much possible and are designed to be suitable for beginners and families.

Mark Sandamas of Pennine Events, which organises the Pendle Bike Fest, said: "It's great that Pendle Forest are doing this as it provides a great opportunity for people to get some exercise through the winter and meet like-minded people.

"The participants enjoyed the earlier rides so much they wanted to keep them going."

A summer series will be announced next year.