THOUSANDS of Wiltshire children have been given the confidence to swap screens for saddles with the county now celebrating a major cycling milestone.

Wiltshire Council’s Bikeability programme has officially trained its 50,000th child, helping young people learn how to cycle safely and confidently on the roads.

The landmark moment was marked at Aloeric Primary School in Melksham, where pupil Leo, the 50,000th child to complete the training, was surprised with a brand-new bike.

The celebration brought together Wiltshire Council and the Bikeability Trust, who praised the programme for helping generations of children gain essential road safety skills while encouraging healthier lifestyles and greener travel.

Every year, around 3,500 Wiltshire children take part in Bikeability, learning everything from basic bike control to navigating real roads safely.

Celebrating cycling success! (Picture: Wiltshire Council)

Wiltshire Council cabinet member for highways Cllr Martin Smith said: “Reaching 50,000 children trained through Bikeability in Wiltshire is a fantastic achievement and a real testament to the dedication and expertise of our instructors and support teams.

“Bikeability plays an important role in helping young people develop life long skills, improve their confidence, and stay safe while cycling.”

He also praised the county’s 30 qualified Bikeability instructors, who work with schools across the county.

Chief executive of the Bikeability Trust Emily Cherry said: “Reaching 50,000 children trained in Wiltshire is a fantastic milestone and a testament to the commitment of the council, instructors, and schools who make Bikeability possible.

“It’s inspiring to see the local impact of the programme, helping more young people discover the freedom and joy of cycling for everyday journeys.”

And for children, the training is already paying off.

“My favourite part was putting all the training into practice by leaving the school and going on the roads,” said pupil Hugo.

Naylah added: “It was really fun. The instructors were kind and my mum trusts me now that I know how to be safe.”

Meanwhile, Frankie said he now rides “more safely and understand[s] the rules of the road”, while Jasmine said the course had made her much more confident cycling.

For thousands of Wiltshire children, it seems the road to independence begins on two wheels.