WARRINGTON-based North Cheshire Clarion have been named British Cycling’s National Go-Ride Club of the Year for 2015.

And one of their ‘incredible’ volunteers has been recognised too.

The honour unveiling came at the British Cycling Go-Ride Conference held at the National Cycling Centre in Manchester.

Selected from 306 Go-Ride clubs nationally, the award was made in recognition of the immense transformation in the club over the past 12 months.

Speaking at the conference, Stephanie Allmark, British Cycling Development Manager for Clubs and Volunteers said: “Eighteen months ago the club were struggling for a venue and had lost many of their coaches.

“Since then they have gone on to develop a great sense of community, providing a fantastic foundation to help young riders progress within the sport.

“Participation in both coaching sessions and racing has expanded phenomenally.”

The club now offers opportunities for everyone; whether members want to train, race or socialise.

They provide road, cyclo-cross, track and mountain-bike training, all of which are underpinned by a strong social scene including events such as a Halloween ride, family treasure hunt and numerous club trips.

“This has all been made possible by an increased volunteer workforce with four new coaches trained over the past year, including two female coaches, which has contributed to a huge increase in female participation within the club,” added Allmark.

North Cheshire Clarion coach and club volunteer Liesl Hacker was also named North West Go-Ride Volunteer of the Year 2015 during the same awards ceremony.

Allmark said the Lymm mum has led the transformation of North Cheshire Clarion, helping to create a community spirit and sense of belonging, loyalty and commitment to succeed from the young riders.

She added: “Members continually respond to, and benefit from, her constant drive and commitment, as well as the obvious energy she injects into all aspects of the club.

“She has been an incredible asset and is always willing to go the extra mile to ensure young people enjoy their riding.”

Go-Ride is British Cycling’s development programme for young people, providing a fun and safe way to introduce young riders to the world of cycle sport and provides a platform to improve bike-handling skills.

North Cheshire Clarion’s Go-Ride Club conducts coaching sessions every Saturday.

For children aged between six and 16, they take place at the University of Chester’s Fearnhead Campus.

The programme resumes next month.

For more information, send an email to goride@northcheshireclarion.co.uk