GOLD medallist Kiera Byland has been telling youngsters to get on their bikes as she introduced the next generation to her sport.

The Special Olympian winning cyclist from Bromley Cross has been coaching the very youngest children at St Paul’s CE Primary School in Astley Bridge. For the past five weeks she has been visiting school twice a week to help nursery and reception children learn to ride Strider Bikes, which help youngsters develop their balance skills and become competent riders. The school said so successful was the project inside and outside the classroom they are hoping the Kiera, who won three gold medals at her first Special Olympics in Los Angeles, will be back.

Paul Morgan, assistant headteacher, said: “It has been a fabulous experience for all involved. The children have benefitted from some first class coaching off an Olympian, learning real skills in the process. It has also been a great opportunity for Kiera to develop her own coaching skills.”

He added: “The children have not just been developing their cycling skills but their confidence and independence has developed and have gained a great sense of achievement.”

A special celebration event was held at the end of the course to which parents were invited.

Mr Morgan said: “It was lovely because parents saw their children achieve at this young age. The children have really enjoyed it. “The children had developed their skills in cycling and hopefully will continue to ride, whether competitively or safety for enjoyment and to keep fit.”