RIDERS rigged their bicycles with festive lights to bring cheer to the Wee County and promote the benefits of travelling on two wheels.

Organised by Lynn Speed with support from the Pedal 4th Community, Clackmannan Development Trust and Carolyn Fraser from the local authority, the first ever Merry and Bright Night Cycle Ride took place once the darkness set in on Tuesday, December 19.

Around dozen cyclists took part and travelled from Alloa Tower up to Clackmannan and the Tolbooth where volunteers prepared hot refreshments and Christmas music for the cyclists in the gazebo.

The fun, sociable event was aimed at encouraging more people cycling while bringing joy to passers by. The weather was kind too, with temperatures staying above zero.

Lynn explained that everyone who joined in had a jolly good time, decorating their bikes and donning festive items.

She said: "The people that came along were really enthusiastic, they full took part.

"They enjoyed dressing up themselves and dressing up their bikes – it was just fun for them to cycle through the towns and then there was a social event at Clackmannan."

Lynn hopes to run the event again next year, in the meantime, she has plans to get people together for a ride at other significant times throughout the year.

The event was also a chance to forge links and build friendships; the Advertiser understands the community council is hoping to start its very own cycling group.

Passers by seemed to enjoy the sight of the bright riders, according to Lynn, who is now encouraging them to join in next time around.

Lynn added: "Thank you to Clackmannan [Development Trust], there was a whole lot of volunteers at the Tolbooth there – they provided lovely refreshments, hot chocolate and mince pies were enjoyed by all."