A free six-week programme at Eastbourne Sports Complex in Darlington is helping people with learning or physical disabilities try cycling using adapted bikes and trikes.
The sessions have been organised by Darlington Borough Council's Move More team, with equipment available for people whose needs are not met by a conventional bicycle. The council says no previous cycling experience is necessary. The programme is intended to make it easier to get active, build confidence and meet other people in a supported environment.
Sessions are scheduled on Mondays in two 45-minute slots, from 10am to 10.45am and 10.45am to 11.30am. The programme was announced on 22 October 2026 for a six-week period, so anyone looking to take part in November should contact the organisers to confirm which dates and places remain available.
What happens at a session?
The council's announcement says adapted bikes and trikes are provided, together with support from experienced staff. That means participants do not need to buy specialist equipment or already know how to cycle before asking about a place.
The sessions are designed to be supportive rather than competitive. The council describes opportunities to become more active, develop independence and learn new skills. Participants who are unsure whether a particular bike or level of support would suit them can ask the Move More team directly when enquiring.
Not all adapted cycles are alike. Different designs can make cycling possible for people who find a standard two-wheeled bicycle difficult or unsuitable. The organisers are best placed to explain which bikes are available on the day and any practical requirements for taking part.
Planning your visit
Before heading to Eastbourne Sports Complex, ask the Move More team whether you need to arrive in advance, how adapted cycles are and what arrangements are available for someone who needs additional help. If you are supporting a participant, sharing relevant access requirements when you enquire can help the organisers advise whether the session will meet their needs. The council's announcement does not specify a drop-in system or guarantee that every type of adapted bike is available, so booking in advance remains important.
Who is involved?
Darlington Borough Council is delivering the programme with Darlington on Disability, WHEEL Education, Darlington Cycling Club and British Cycling. The combination brings together local disability expertise, cycling experience and community partners.
There is no fee to attend the advertised sessions. For someone wondering whether cycling is an option, the ability to try it without paying for equipment or a course is an important starting point.
How to book
Anyone interested should contact the Move More team to check , the remaining dates and whether a suitable adapted cycle can be provided. The council asks people to book or enquire by email at movemore@darlington.gov.uk.
The original Darlington Borough Council announcement has the official programme details. If you support someone who might enjoy taking part, you can contact the organisers together and ask about any access arrangements before travelling.
Since this is a time-limited programme, do not assume a place or a session date remains available without checking. The published details describe the six-week programme, not an indefinite weekly class.
: Darlington Borough Council, 22 October 2026, verified 10 November 2026. Featured photograph shows adaptive cycling in Richmond Park, London, and is illustrative rather than a picture of this Darlington programme.