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An initiative to get more wore women cycling in Greater Manchester is to run again following its success over the last few years.

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) is urging women to get on their bikes by offering cycle clubs, groups and not-for-profit organisations the chance to apply for grants of up to £2,500 towards events and activities.

The three month-long celebration of cycling takes place from January through to March 2018 and events can be aimed at encouraging complete beginners to give cycling a go, through to women returning to cycling or those who may need a bit more confidence.

This year TfGM is looking for groups to run a whole programme or series of events rather than a one-off, single-day event.

The grants can fund a variety of activities such as bike maintenance sessions, talks and led rides.

The Urban Fitness Collective (Tuf*C), an Old Trafford-based initiative that trains young people to become leaders through sport, ran an event last year. Tuf*C’s Andy Hilton said: “Tuf*C Community Cycling was successful with funding in 2016.

“Working with our local bike shop, we ran ‘puncture parties’ for women which was a fun, practical and hands-on course for fixing punctures and replacing tubes by the roadside.

“The events were a great success and all participants really enjoyed them. The legacy is that most of the female cyclists who attended come out on rides with us and with friends, their confidence improving not only on the road but going into their local bike shop too! This wouldn’t have been possible without TfGM support or funding.”

The TfGM Committee’s Cycling and Walking Champion, Councillor Chris Paul, said: “The women’s cycling campaign was a great success last year, with more than 1,000 people signing up to events across the region, and some selling out almost immediately.

“We want to build on the success of last year by offering groups the opportunity to apply for up to £2,500 to host a series of events to encourage more women to start cycling or cycle more.

“Whether it’s rides, talks, networking, music, crafts, blogging, or maintenance and repairs, applicants are free to choose a single theme or to build up a varied programme.

“The events are all about inspiring more women to get out and enjoy all the benefits cycling has to offer, from keeping fit and making new friends to saving money on your daily commute.”

The closing date for funding applications is 5pm on Friday 8 December 2017. Only one application will be accepted per group, for a maximum of £2,500.

For more information on how to apply, contact the TfGM Cycling team on 0161 244 1000 or email cycling@tfgm.com.

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