East Ayrshire's youngsters and adults with learning and physical difficulties are set to benefit after being given access to a range of 'all ability cycles'. The cycles, which are specially adapted for people with physical and learning disabilities, help encourage people to take more exercise while enjoying different variations of cycling.

NHS Ayrshire & Arran's Learning Disability Team in partnership with East Ayrshire Council's Leisure Development services, VIPs and other voluntary organisations organised a 'bike day' to showcase the new bicycles at the Ayrshire Athletics Arena in Kilmarnock.

More than 100 people came along to the event, where they had the chance to try out the new equipment. The Scottish Government provided funding through their Exercise and Improved Health for People with Learning Disabilities. This was used to purchase the specialist equipment including wheelchair accessible bikes, tandem style bikes, recumbent bikes, tricycles, race running bikes and go karts. These bikes are in addition to those already provided by East Ayrshire Council for the new arena.

Linda Harding, Community Physiotherapist, said: "All Ability Cycling needs highly specialist equipment to allow people with varying and significant levels of disability to enjoy the freedom of cycling. For many on the day, it was their first time on a bike - with many surpassing their own perceived physical capabilities. Everyone had a fabulous day - made all the better by the sunny weather and cloud-free sky." Councillor Eoghann MacColl, Spokesperson for Improving Community Health and Wellbeing said: "The new �7m Ayrshire Athletics Arena provides our local communities with state of the art facilities and its inclusive design means the Council is now able to develop and promote athletics and sport for people with a disability.

"All ability cycling has proved extremely popular and is a perfect example of partnership working benefiting the health and wellbeing of local people." The 'all ability cycles' are now available for hire at the new Ayrshire Athletic Arena, Queens Drive, Kilmarnock, on designated sessions during the week. Booking is required through East Ayrshire Council's Leisure Services by calling 01563 555227. They will also organise staff to carry out an initial assessment and identify the appropriate equipment for your needs.