Stonehouse Wheelers are a cycling club who were formed in 1948. They are not competitive but that doesn’t stop them getting out and about a couple of times a week and having fun.

Carol Kambites, who has been their chairman for the past 10-plus years, said: “We’re a nice, friendly club, we’re not out for speed.

“All you need is a roadworthy bike with mudguards and, in the winter, lights. You certainly don’t need to wear lycra, although some of us do.

“We go out for an enjoyable cycle ride and pride ourselves on not leaving anyone behind.”

The club boast some 50 members and, weather permitting, go out for a social ride on Wednesday and Sunday afternoons.

“We typically go for about 25 miles – it can be longer – but we always have a coffee stop, that is very important,” said Carol.

“The club have been going for a long time and some of our members are aged over 70. But we welcome riders of all ages, although children must be accompanied by an adult.”

Carol is keen to talk about the many benefits of cycling.

“First and foremost, it’s very enjoyable,” she said. “It’s good for your health, you’re taking exercise and you’re out in the fresh air.”

And there are other advantages too.

“You get to know the area where you live,” she said, “I know all the little lanes around me.”

The cycle rides are planned a couple of months in advance and members take it in turns to lead the rides.

“We have a healthy committee and it makes it more interesting when different people lead the rides,” explained Carol.

And what about Carol herself, how long does she want to continue as chairman of the club?

“I don’t mind doing it although it’s always nice when jobs are shared around,” she said. “If somebody else wants to do it, I’d be happy to let them.”

That’s the club’s team spirit in evidence again.

And if you are in any doubt about it, just visit the club’s website where, in appealing to new members, the club say: “Don’t worry about punctures or breakdowns, one of the advantages of cycling in a group is that there is always someone on hand to help.”