British Cycling and Middlesbrough Council have announced an increased programme of open track sessions at the Middlesbrough outdoor velodrome, which is due to be officially opened on May 8.

The 250m velodrome, which forms part of the Middlesbrough Sports Village, opens fully to the local community on Sunday, after opening its doors to accredited cyclists last September.

Ahead of the launch event, which will take place around a round of the National Youth Omnium, the two organisations have confirmed that a new fleet of Hoy track bikes – funded by Middlesbrough Council and sourced by British Cycling – will enable even more local people to get into cycling at the facility.

A total of twelve coached sessions a week will provide regular and affordable opportunities for people to enjoy the sport.

Martin Miles, of Everyone Active, who recently became operators of Middlesbrough Sports Village, said:

“This is a fantastic opportunity for people in the North East to try out cycling on a local, state-of-the art facility.

“Cycling is a fun and rewarding way of staying active and we hope this increased programme will inspire many more people to use the velodrome and give the sport a go.”

John Mills, director of coaching, education and development at British Cycling, added:

“This is a really significant development for cycling in the region. Enhancing the initial programme at the Middlesbrough velodrome was always the plan, and we are delighted that the track will now be used by a larger number of riders and affiliated clubs, providing more chances for the people of the North East to access a top-class cycling facility.”

The new timetable will come into effect on May 9. The sessions will cost £6 per person, with the price including use of a hire bike, and will give riders the chance to progress through the four-stage track accreditation programme.

For more details on the new timetable, please contact the Middlesbrough Sports Village main reception, either in person or via telephone on 01642 728555.