A councillor attempted to challenge a teenage cyclo-cross star as they both tried out new hi-tech bikes at Thornton Recreation Centre, Thornton.

Ward councillor Mike McCabe raced against junior gym members and one of his challengers was Bingley’s Hannah Shenton, who is ranked the British number two for her age at cyclo-cross.

The X Dream bikes combine an exercise bike with a computer simulation of a challenging mountain bike ride.

Coun McCabe said: “The exercise bikes bring a completely new concept to fitness and exercise and are sure to be a hit with young people in the Thornton Schools Partnership. The X bike is the next generation of indoor bicycle. It helps to engage the upper body and core muscles, as well as the legs. It is a fantastic cardiovascular work-out.”