PEOPLE throughout the district are being urged to get on their bikes as part of a national cycling initiative.

From seasoned cyclists to those who have never previously saddled up, organisers of national Bike Week are encouraging people to take to two wheels.

The initiative is being supported by car and cycle chain Halfords, whose branches are offering free bike checks.

Bike Week, which runs until Sunday (June 18), is being spearheaded by Cycling UK.

Chief executive, Paul Tuohy, said: "This is an excuse for a party on a bike – and that's why our theme this year is fun and freedom!

"We want to help millions more people rediscover – or find out for the first time – just how much fun you can have cycling.

"So whether you're out with friends, planning a family get-together or simply like getting away from the daily grind, join the half-a-million people taking part in Bike Week!"

The venture is the UK's biggest mass-participation cycling event.

Activities, from family-friendly traffic-free rides to bike breakfasts, are being held nationally.

"The idea is to help make cycling a more accessible and attractive proposition to the many people who might just need a gentle nudge back into the saddle," added Mr Tuohy.

"Bike Week provides a one-stop-shop of events and inspiration to get you out and about. There is a wide range of events taking place suitable for cyclists of all ages and levels of experience.

"With cycling becoming more popular than ever, increasing numbers of people are taking it up as an easy and efficient way to travel.

"According to the National Travel Survey, over five million people cycle three or more times a week."

Anyone wanting a free cycle check should take their bike to Halfords, at Westside Retail Park Guiseley, by Sunday.

Cycling across the district has seen a surge in popularity since the Tour de France Grand Depart came to the area in 2014, and following the success of the Tour de Yorkshire.

Both events saw thousands of spectators line the routes locally and sparked community celebrations.

The third stage of the Tour de Yorkshire in April started in Bradford and the cyclists came through Silsden, Keighley and the Worth Valley en route to Sheffield.

For more details about Bike Week, visit bikeweek.org.uk.