Our Breeze into the Forest programme is proving a hit this wellbeing month, helping women experience off-road riding in a safe and comfortable environment.

British Cycling and Forestry England teamed up to create Breeze into the Forest in July 2021, offering free, women-only group rides for all abilities in the nation’s forests. Each group ride is led by a qualified Breeze Champion, and there is always a café stop for a chat over tea and cake at the end of each ride.

Back in November, we spoke to Breeze Champions Kate Culleton and Rachel Evans to hear about their experience of the programme at Delamere Forest.

Experienced rider Kate has been cycling on the road for years, but got involved in Breeze into the Forest after seeing an advert on Facebook.

She said: “I really like the fact that it's just ladies because I know a lot of women that want to cycle but they're nervous and won't come out, which is a shame. There are many women who feel a bit nervous, not very confident, and assume they're too slow, but Breeze into the Forest gives them a chance to get out.

“I think the appeal is getting people away from the traffic, as well as the nature side being really good for people. Most people are, understandably, scared of traffic, so Breeze into the Forest is great. We also try and teach people skills as well on how to ride efficiently and how to keep yourself safe around bends and uphills. People really love it - and of course there's always cake at the end which helps!”

Kate has been leading Breeze rides at Delamere Forest since October 2021, having completed her training to be a Breeze Champion at Cannock Chase. A road rider at heart, Kate digs out her gravel bike and cycles 35 miles from Crewe to lead the seven-mile Breeze rides at Delamere, and is passionate about ensuring women of all abilities and ages feel comfortable and highlighting the importance of just getting out.

She added: “Breeze into the Forest builds people's confidence so that they can go on other rides and meet other people and can go on rides on their own. It definitely always encourages further riding in everyone's own way, and that's the most important thing. Ride whichever way is best for you.

“We have one lady who comes out who is just recovering from cancer, getting herself back to fitness and it's great. Without Breeze into the Forest rides, she might not go out, but this will help her psychologically, mentally, physically, so that's why I do it - all for each woman and her own reason.

“I just love cycling - I can't explain it. Sometimes when the weather is a bit rubbish and it's a bit cold I don't really want to go, but once I'm out, it's brilliant. You can't beat it.

“I'd tell people who are thinking about coming to a Breeze into the Forest ride just to do it and give it a go! You really don't need any special skills at all - if you can talk and be friendly with people, then you can do it.”

Kate is assisted by fellow Breeze Champion Rachel, who initially started going to Breeze rides in 2017 at Cannock Chase. Following some time away from the bike, Rachel started to go along to the Breeze into the Forest rides at Delamere Forest in January 2022.

Rachel said: “I really enjoyed the rides at Cannock Chase and when I saw the Delamere Forest Breeze into the Forest rides advertised, I thought it was time to try and get back on my bike. After my first ride back at Delamere, the Breeze Champions put me forward to become a Breeze Champion and by the end of February 2022, I was qualified.

“Company with other women inspires me to come out and do the rides and meet people with similar interests.

“I think people should definitely come and try Breeze as they'd have such a good time. Being outside in nature stimulates you and makes you feel better. I think it helps mentally and it's just good being out and getting fresh air. It's more pleasant being in the forest than on the roads.”

Active Forest Coordinator for Forestry England at Delamere Forest, Tracey Greer, said: “We were very excited to work with British Cycling to get Breeze off the ground here at Delamere Forest and it’s been a great addition to our programme. Our Breeze Champions have been so enthusiastic from the start, and every time I catch up with them or the cyclists there’s a great buzz and lots of smiles!”

Find out how you can get involved in our Breeze rides here.