A new project has been launched to encourage people to use Morecambe Bay more regularly for exercise.

The 'Ways Around The Bay' initiative aims to make the area a new centre for walking, cycling and exploring the Bay in low carbon ways. 

To help draw attention to the scheme, two free events are being held on July 20 and 21 at Grange-over-Sands and Arnside.

The Morecambe Bay Partnership, a local charity, has teamed up with the 'Bike Doctor' for the two clinics.

These will deliver free bike health checks and basic repairs, in order to enable people to experience all the joy and health benefits that cycling brings.

The Bike Doctor sessions offer a local qualified bike mechanic who will be on hand to carry out minor repairs, including replacing standard brake pads and nuts and bolts, gear and brake cable replacement and puncture repair.

This will all be done completely free of charge in the hope that this will encourage more people to change their lifestyle.

The mechanic will safety check the bike and recommend local bike shops for any further repair, and offer general advice on cycling.

There is no need to pre-register, with people encouraged to simply turn up with their bike and complete a short paper form.

Everyone is welcome but under 18's must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Ways Around the Bay is creating more inclusive access, so that everyone can enjoy the Bay’s 'inspiring landscapes, nature, history and culture'.

The programme is funded by the Department for Levelling Up (Coastal Communities Fund) via Westmorland and Furness Council.

The Morecambe Bay Partnership exists to help keep the area 'special'.

Its vision is for a local economy that provides healthy, happy, low-carbon living for everyone, and where nature is more abundant, heritage is understood, protected and celebrated, and the Bay’s culture is thriving. 

The two clinics will take place at the promenades in Grange-over-Sands and Arnside between 9am and 4.30pm.