A TEENAGE cycling star from Bolton is hoping to help get millions of people active.

Kiera Byland, aged 19, from Bromley Cross, has been named as an ambassador for the charity GreaterSport.

The organisation is aiming to get two million people moving in Greater Manchester with the launch of their new strategy ‘Changing our Lives Together’.

Kiera represented Greater Britain at the Special Olympics in Los Angeles and came back with three gold medals in the 5km, 10km and 15km races.

She has learning disabilities and pinpoints starting cycling, aged 12, as a major turning point in her life.

Kiera also represents Special Olympic GB on the European Special Olympics committee, is a student at Bolton University studying a BTEC level three in sport, is a strider bike instructor and ambassador and also speaks at schools around Bolton to share her story and the importance of being active.

GreaterSport aims to change lives through physical activity and sport and is aiming to make Greater Manchester the most active region in England.

Kiera said: "Cycling has made a real difference to my life and I want to help make sure that other young people with learning disabilities have an opportunity to be active.

"I feel lucky to be working with GreaterSport to use my story and experiences to help and inspire others.”

Kiera is launching a Special Olympic programme in Greater Manchester, called Fit5, aimed at providing a guide to achieving fitness and your personal best with physical activity, nutrition and hydration.

Yvonne Harrison, CEO of GreaterSport said:“We are delighted to have Kiera as an ambassador.

"She is a local athlete who is extremely passionate about ensuring that young people with learning disabilities have an opportunity to be active."