A GROUP of caring cyclists are following in the tracks of Olympic hero Jason Kenny this weekend at the Manchester Velodrome.

A charity challenge event is being held by Bolton Lads and Girls Club at the world-famous National Cycling Centre to support the fundraising work of the club’s Man vs Mountain climbing event in the Himalayas.

The aim of both events is to raise £50,000 to support and expand the Spa Road club’s services for members of the Independent Group by buying a new mini bus with disabled access.

The weekend event involves cycling taster sessions, competitions and exhibitions by experienced cyclists as well as a three-course dinner, live music and speakers and promises to push the current funds even nearer their target.

All of which is good news for the Independence Group which has been helping young people aged 12 to 25 who have physical, sensory and learning disabilities since 1992.

At that time, the group was deemed to be groundbreaking in this as BLGC organisers recognised that a disability should not result in segregation or separation from others.

Nineteen years later, the Tuesday and Thursday evening meetings of the senior independence group and the Friday evening meetings of the junior group provide lively and inclusive activities for all the members.

“We try to ensure that they can take part in everything that the able-bodied club members can do,” said BLGC spokeswoman Charlotte Nash.

“We have special equipment to help and they enjoy everything available — even things like the climbing wall.” They also enjoy the trampoline, football, dance, art, drama, boxing and plenty of other activities, including going on residential day trips, on outings to the cinema and meals out.

As cycling event organiser Ralph D’Attorre stated: “Without the Independence Group these young people would not have the opportunity to take part in the wide range of activities on offer.”

One member, Danielle Rostron, explained that having a special minibus without a wheelchair lift “means we can’t all go on trips out or to the Lake District together, adding: “Some miss out and this spoils our time as we want everyone to be able to join in.”

l To find out more about the group go to boltonladsandgirlsclub.co.uk