Local sports facility hosts weekly training sessions, helping a wide range of children enjoy healthy lifestyles and learn new skills.

Set up in the year 2000, Lee Valley Youth Cycling Club has a long history of developing youth sportspeople and seeing them go on to professional careers. It remains one of the top youth cycling clubs in the country, yet an expanding membership since the London 2012 Olympic games has seen an increased focus on introducing children from all backgrounds to the sport. Monthly 'induction sessions' help bring in a large number of new members and give them a taste of what the club is all about, with older members regularly giving demonstrations to younger riders and passing on their experience to those wishing to follow in the footsteps of Olympic legends.

The influence of the club’s work, and that of its tireless team of volunteers braving all manner of weather in order to come and coach each week, is clear to see. Races around the area are frequently dominated by Lee Valley members, especially in the younger categories, and the sight of an LVYCC jersey is a regular occurrence throughout the paths of Epping forest.

The club also regularly promotes events and races, at both local and national level, which are always attended by an entourage of local residents cheering on the riders. LVYCC has even provided members with the opportunity to compete in international races during the competitive season, and these have been hugely beneficial to the development of those wanting to compete at a high level. However, the club’s setup is such that whatever form of cycling they want to pursue, from recreational rides all the way up racing against the best in the country, members will always be surrounded by those who are clearly just enjoying riding their bikes.

Club founder Bob Griffiths, a constant presence at training sessions and races alike, says: 'The primary aim of the club is to encourage youth cycling as a fun activity for all'. Both Bob and Julie Griffiths have spent the better part of two decades dedicated to the club and its members, despite their own children having long gone on to pursue pro careers.

Club training sessions run every Saturday 10-12 am at Redbridge cycling centre, ages 6-16 welcome.

Max Bolton - Debden Park High School