The Merton Cycling Campaign (MCC) has received a £10,000 grant from Comic Relief meaning young people across the borough will soon be able to benefit from free or cut-price cycling instruction.

The cash injection is hoped to encourage more people to get on their bike and enjoy the benefits that cycling can bring.

Fred Ellis, a cycling instructor and the man behind the MCC’s bid for funding, said: “This is such a success for cycling in the borough. Riding a bike is so good for improving a child’s quality of life and overall fitness.”

Members of the MCC will be out in force on Sunday to take part in London’s Skyride - the largest mass participation cycling event to take place in the capital.

Around 50,000 are expected to converge in the centre of town after setting off from all corners of London including Merton.