by Graham Tutthill

Cyclists are being given the chance to improve their skills when a local champion visits the skate park at Pencester Gardens, Dover.

Dover resident James Sheridan, who is the current UCI British Cycle Trials Elite 20" class champion and European Cup winner, is leading a series of free drop-in skills sessions at the skate park starting on Tuesday, March 2.

The series of two-hour sessions will take place on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5 to 7pm throughout March. Further sessions are due to be arranged throughout the year. The sessions are for all ages and abilities.

The skate park was launched in March 2007 following an upgrade of skateboard, BMX and in-line skating facilities.

The drop-in sessions are being delivered by local company PACE Development, on behalf of Dover District Council and are being funded by Barclays Spaces for Sport, which is administered by the Football Foundation.