CLEARER skies and warmer days recently has seen 1st Chard Wheelers don their summer cycling gear and get out on the roads of Somerset and beyond.

As usual, riders have been seen in their classic Chard red, white and blue kit riding competitively and socially across the county and beyond.

Club president Paul Barrett was joined by Rex Facey, Isla Smeeton and Paul Retter among others on a tour of the Isle of Wight (pictured).

According to the Wheelers: "The island is perfect for a days riding as it’s just the right size with a few hills to get the heart rate up."

Chard Wheelers big aim is to now promote more inclusive cycling in the club, enabling more people to group cycle without the fear that they aren’t fit enough, and dispel the myth that you need to be super fit.

More recently as a result of Olympic and Grand Tour UK successes, cyclists have been inspired and joined the club in their masses simply with a wish to gain fitness and cycle for the joy of riding.

The club now has a huge social ride following with over 100 active members.

Press secretary Mark Hughes said: “The club will always have racing interests, but it’s important not to discriminate against the majority of riders who just want to ride their bikes. We now have social rides taking place almost every day of the week.”

With exciting plans in 2023 to organise a new event for the town, Chard Wheelers rejuvenation both on the social and racing front is well on its way at a time when we all need something to look forwards to.

To join 1st Chard Wheelers go to www.1stchardwheelers.org.uk.