As millions of cycling fans follow the Tour de France this July, local riders are being invited to experience the sport for themselves by joining one of Cheshire's most unusual and friendliest weekly bike rides.

The Farmer's Pants ride, which starts in Ravensmoor, near Nantwich, continues to grow in popularity, with more than 20 cyclists taking part in the latest Friday evening ride.

The completely free, 11-mile route begins on Marsh Lane and, true to its quirky name, follows a loop shaped like a giant pair of underpants.

With the Tour de France currently captivating cycling fans around the world, organisers hope the excitement generated by the world's biggest bike race will encourage more local people to dust off their bikes and give community cycling a try.

Unlike the gruelling three-week Tour de France, which sees the world's best cyclists race more than 2,000 miles over mountains, rolling countryside and sprint stages, the Farmer's Pants ride is all about enjoying cycling at your own pace.

Whether riders want to push themselves on the climbs, chase an unofficial personal best or simply enjoy a relaxed spin through the Cheshire countryside with friends, everyone is welcome.

Founder, Paul McIntyre, summed up the atmosphere after the latest ride, jokingly dubbed "Stage 123 of the Tour de Ravensmoor".

He said: "What a fantastic evening for Stage 123 of the Tour de Ravensmoor. Over 20 riders rolled out for another edition of Farmer's Pants, making it one of our best-attended rides of the year.

"The weather was kind, the roads were dry and, most importantly, the spirit of the group was as strong as ever.

"Whether you were chasing an imaginary king or queen of Chorley Hill, enjoying a steady spin with friends or simply looking for an excuse to get out, move a little and have a chat afterwards, it was great to see such a wide range of riders enjoying the route together.

"A huge thank you to everyone who came along and contributed to such a positive atmosphere.

"Special thanks must go to Dave, Pete and Neil, who have done a fantastic job keeping the wheels turning whilst I've been away.

"Attendance has been brilliant, everyone has been made to feel welcome and the group has continued to thrive.

"Proof that Farmer's Pants is bigger than one pair of pants. Thanks also to The Farmers Arms for continuing to be welcoming hosts, especially on a busy evening with a function taking place.

"Whether you're a seasoned cyclist, a returning rider or someone thinking about joining us for the first time, you'll always find a place in the peloton."

The weekly rides are about far more than fitness. They also help raise awareness of men's health and mental health charities, including those supporting prostate and testicular cancer causes, giving every mile an added purpose.

Taking place on most Fridays at 6pm throughout the spring and summer, the rides are timed so participants can enjoy the route and be home before dark.

Everyone is encouraged to wear a cycle helmet, make sure their bike is roadworthy, follow the Highway Code, respect other road users and look out for fellow riders.

Paul is well known locally for bringing people together through community sport. As well as founding the Nantwich Triathlon Club, he also organises the popular monthly Dabbers Dash at Barony Park.

With interest in cycling at its highest during the Tour de France, organisers say there has never been a better time to get involved.

Whether you're an experienced cyclist, returning to riding after years away or looking for a friendly group to join for the first time, you'll find a warm welcome on the Farmer's Pants ride.

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