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To celebrate International Women’s Day, British Cycling are proud to announce that two of Britain’s best-loved cyclists are lending their support to the biggest programme to get more women on their bikes for fun.

Lizzie Armitstead and Jess Varnish are to become British Cycling Breeze ambassadors.

Since its launch in May 2011, British Cycling’s Breeze has tackled barriers facing women and is providing as many fun and free opportunities to help them get back on their bikes.

Led by women, for women Breeze has already helped over 17,000 women feel confident and comfortable about going on a bike ride, but has also trained and supported over 400 Breeze champions to deliver over 3,000 local bike rides in across England.

Olympic silver-medallist Lizzie Armitstead is proud to be a Breeze ambassador.

Lizzie said: “Jess and I are encouraging as many women as possible to get on their bikes and go on a Breeze bike ride. Cycling is a big part of my life and I want as many women out there to experience the fun and social side of riding a bike.

I’m proud to be involved in Breeze as it’s doing such a great job in breaking down the barriers and empowering women to get on their bikes.”

Jess Varnish

“It’s not as scary as you think because Breeze is here to help you start your cycling journey. From advice on learning how to ride through to local bike rides, Breeze is fantastic and accessible.”

Jess Varnish said: “Cycling gives you a sense of freedom like nothing else. I’m proud to be involved in Breeze as it’s doing such a great job in breaking down the barriers and empowering women to get on their bikes.”

Breeze bike rides are local, friendly and informal. Majority of the rides are on traffic-free routes and are ideal for busy mums and anyone who hasn't been on a bike for a while.

The rides usually start or end at a local café, where cake and friendly natter is served in abundance. Designed to suit all ages and abilities, they are the perfect excuse to get out into the great outdoors and explore the local area on two wheels.

Join the cycling revolution and find out how you can get involved in the Breeze network at breezebikerides.com.