Service users at Bradford District Care Trust have taken to the saddle.

Weekly cycling sessions are held at Lynfield Mount Hospital to improve fitness, motivation and enhance social interaction.

Zahoor Aslam, senior occupational therapy assistant at the Trust, said: “We are supporting people who have planned leave from the ward to increase their fitness levels in a tranquil outdoor area. The cycling sessions are offering patients the opportunity to take part in a social, health activity and improve mental wellbeing.”

The cycling group caters for beginners to more advanced levels based on the cycling ability.

James Callaghan, one of the group members, said: “We started with short routes until we developed our confidence and skills. In one session we cycled up to 20 miles. We’ve also cycled on Leeds canal, Queensbury, Howarth, Skipton and Ilkley. ”

Group members have developed a keen interest in cycling since the sessions started. Tony Kirk has bought his own bike and a GPS system to help when mapping cycling routes.

Mr Kirk said: “I like to use my laptop to plan routes. I planned our latest route with support from Zahoor. I want to keep cycling - I’m really enjoying it and like keeping fit.”