County residents are being encouraged to get on their bikes and join an online forum which connects them to other riders.

East Lothian Council is inviting residents of all ages and abilities to join Love to Ride East Lothian, a free community platform which supports riders to cycle in and around the county.

The forum will connect riders and provide support and guidance to ride with confidence.

Councillor Colin McGinn, cabinet member for community wellbeing, said: “The last few years, particularly during periods of lockdown during the pandemic, have seen an increased interest in cycling.

“East Lothian Council has increased active travel routes and is continuing to identify ways to encourage safer routes for cycling.

“The forthcoming UCI Cycling World Championships are being held in Scotland, and this provides an ideal opportunity to share the opportunities to cycle locally.

“We have signed up with Love to Ride to help encourage and support more local people and businesses to enjoy cycling.”

Riders hop on their bikes, log their rides online, encourage their friends and family to ride, and win prizes for their efforts.

Throughout the year, Love to Ride runs several challenges that reward people for riding their bike and encouraging others.

Each challenge is different and requires different actions to enter the prize draws.

To sign up, visit www.lovetoride.net/eastlothian to create your free profile.

An app for iOS is also available, with one coming soon for Android users.