BIKE-MAD youngsters are being offered a no-hassle chance to enjoy themselves.

Scrambles event organisers Leigh Motor Cycle Club are throwing their door open to anyone aged 12 and over who wants somewhere to legally ride their moto-cross type machines.

Club founder Brian Hayes, still enthusiastically and competitively riding every weekend after nearly 30 years on the rough, says: "There are so many kids out there with bikes who play around over the fields.

"Strictly speaking, they are breaking the law - although they are undoubtedly having fun.

"We're offering them the chance to enjoy riding bikes but without annoying anyone or posing dangers.

"Providing they have someone with transport prepared to take them to a local circuit, they can ride every weekend in comparative safety. "If they are going to the expense of buying a bike and riding gear they may as well get out there and do it properly.

"Club members will help them get started and they will learn how to look after their own machine.

"From the safety aspect they'll know everyone is riding the same way around the track, which is more than can be said for those having a quick blast over the rucks!

"Plus joining the club is a brilliant way for some youngsters to overcome shyness. And if they don't want to go all out and race they can leave the risks to the rest and just simply ride their bike at the speed they want.

"Club membership is £35, less than 70p per week, and riding will cost them £12.50 per race meeting including insurance."

Brian explained how as well as catering for adults and experts the club had special categories for 12- to 16-year-old newcomers to the sport.

The youngsters are restricted to machines with a maximum engine capacity of 125cc, but school age entrants can also use machines of 50cc, 60cc, 80cc and 100cc.

Club night is each Monday (8.30pm) at Bedford Village Club on Chapel Street, Leigh.

Call Brian for details on 01942-887755 or 512687, or pick-up details from him at B & D Motorcyles, High Street, Atherton.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.