BMX hobby has been a lifeline, says woman, 63

Allison Randlesome said the first three times she took part she was terrified

A 63-year-old woman says she joined a BMX group after she "got to an age where I felt I hadn't lived and I wanted to do something different".

Allison Randlesome described taking up the sport as a lifeline.

"The first three times I was here doing it I was terrified and I thought why am I doing this?" she said.

"Then after that every little jump and every little corner started to become very, very rewarding and very exciting."

She takes part in the BMXercise sessions at a BMX track in Cornwall

The BMXercise sessions at the Cornwall BMX Track, near Blackwater, are an Access Sport initiative, supported by British Cycling. The aim is to get more adults on to bikes.

Ms Randlesome said she had originally got involved in the sessions as a dare three years ago.

"Every little thing became a big thing and an achievement," she said.

"I love it, it's like a big family."

British Cycling Community Coach, Tracey Clapton explained the weekly classes were there for anyone who wanted to improve their mental and physical health.

"I love giving back to the sport that is my love," she said.

"Giving them [the women] the confidence to have a go, building their own self-esteem and doing something they've never done before."