Lizzie's new role as ambassador (From Ilkley Gazette)

Lizzie's new role as ambassador

7:30am Thursday 14th March 2013 in Sport

Otley cycling star Lizzie Armitstead has been given a key role to promote women’s cycling.

She and fellow Olympic hero Jess Varnish have been appointed as British Cycling Breeze ambassadors.

Armitstead and Varnish are two of Britain’s best-loved cyclists and they are lending their support to the biggest programme to get more women on their bikes for fun.

Since its launch in May 2011, British Cycling’s Breeze has tackled barriers facing women and is providing as many fun and free opportunities to help them get back on their bikes.

Led by women, for women Breeze has already helped over 17,000 women feel confident and comfortable about going on a bike ride, but has also trained and supported over 400 Breeze champions to deliver over 3,000 local bike rides in across England.

Armitstead who won silver in the women’s road race at the London Olympics said: “Jess and I are encouraging as many women as possible to get on their bikes and go on a Breeze bike ride.

“Cycling is a big part of my life and I want as many women out there to experience the fun and social side of riding a bike.

“I’m proud to be involved in Breeze.”