Children fed up of needing their parents as a taxi service can give themselves the chance for some travel independence while being safe by signing up for free summer cycling lessons.

The Croydon Council-organised, two-stage training is open to children aged 10 and over and they will need to provide their own bicycle.

Stage one, conducted off-road, covers bike control, observation, road positioning, signalling and the Highway Code. It consists of five two-hour sessions and there is a test during the last one.

The second stage takes place on the road and participants must have passed stage one to progress. After four two-hour lessons, there is a test and those who pass are presented with a cycle licence and a badge.

Summer places for stage one are available on: l July 31 to August 4, 9.30am to 11.30am, at Monks Orchard School, The Glade, Shirley.

l July 31 to August 4, 1.30pm to 3.30pm, at Broadmead Junior School, 366 Sydenham Road, Croydon.

l August 7 to 11, 9.30am to 11.30am, at Norbury Manor Primary School, Abingdon Road, Norbury.

l August 7 to 11, 1.30pm to 3.30pm, at South Norwood Primary School, Crowther Road, SE25.

l August 14 to 18, 9.30am to 11.30am, at Purley Oaks Primary School, Bynes Road, South Croydon.

l August 14 to 18, 1.30pm to 3.30pm, at Roke Primary School, Little Roke Road, Kenley.

l August 21 to 25, 9.30am to 11.30am, at Regina Coeli School, Pampisford Road, South Croydon.

l August 21 to 25, 1.30pm to 3.30pm, at Woodcote High School, Meadow Rise, Coulsdon.

Councillor Phil Thomas, cabinet member for streets and environmental services said: "Cycling keeps you fit and, for children, it can give them a sense of independence. These lessons, along with extra supervised practice, equip youngsters with the abilities to use the roads sensibly and helps to keep them safe, a concern for all parents.

"So, sign up to the courses and you can get out and enjoy the borough on your bike."

For more information or to book at place call 020 8760 5484 or email roy.clark@croydon. gov.uk.