CYCLISTS took to the streets of Thornbury on Saturday night to celebrate the first birthday of the town’s cycling club.

Members of Thornbury Cycling Club, which was founded to encourage both the social side as well as the pedal power of the sport, now boasts more than 200 members since it was founded last February.

The celebratory night-time ride saw members gather at Thornbury Fire Station to take the streets by storm, riding together around the country lanes before enjoying a curry night at the Anchor at Morton pub and continuing on for a drink at the Anchor at Oldbury and plenty of birthday cake.

“We really do try to be a wholly inclusive club,” said club founder Pete Jackson, who set up the club after noticing the number of riders in Thornbury and the surrounding area.”

Mr Jackson, who was presented with a token of appreciation at the curry night, added: “The progress of our riders as they ride further and faster than they ever have before and develop their skills is fantastic, but the purpose of the club is also about having fun and enjoying cycling for the fantastic pastime it is.

“I’m thrilled with the growth of the club and although I recognised there was a need for a club like this even I’m surprised by how fast it’s grown.”

Thornbury Cycling Club organises formal rides from beginner to advanced levels, with members only needing to pay a £10 subscription fee for the year.

To find out more about Thornbury Cycling Club and its events go to the club’s Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/groups/ThornburyCyclingClub/