Southend Wheelers, one of the biggest cycling clubs in Essex, celebrate their 80th anniversary next month on a high note after a year of tremendous progress following its Awards for All Lottery grant.

Since the award, the club has seen two more members qualify as British Cycling coaches, cycling's recognised coaching standard, and they have trained over 70 children from Southend and Rochford through the 'Get Set' and 'Challenge' skills programme.

Several youngsters joined the club afterwards.

Wheelers have also launched a website and is about to start a major campaign to promote the club and the sport in the Southend area.

Chairman Fred Little said: "This has been a great year leading up to our 80th birthday and we are in great shape for the next 80!

"We now have four fully-trained British Cycling coaches, six certified first aiders, four fully trained members in child protection issues along with the latest first-aid and coaching equipment."

Southend Wheelers is to run several Get Set cycle skill courses for youngsters this summer and is seeking to run British Cycling's new Go Ride scheme.

Anyone interested in finding out more can call secretary Christine Hutson on 01268 511896 or visit the website at www.southendwheelers.org

Published Friday, April 18, 2003

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