All the organisers I spoke to stressed that going along to your first club ride needn’t be intimidating, and that doing so would provide women with a great group of ladies to ride with.

Anne of Sunday Girls said: “I would really encourage ladies to try and join a cycling club.  You can learn so much from other members. Your cycling will improve and you make new friends.  It is also much safer to ride in a group and there is always someone to help with a puncture or two.”

Bee’s reaction was the same, and she explained: “To any woman considering joining a club, I’d say “Do it!”. Women email me all the time saying that when they are fitter they might join, I always reply with a ‘join now’ answer, and let us help you get your fitness, and develop as a cyclist at the same time. It’s amazing how joining a group of like minded people, getting some club kit and actually riding regularly and having fun so you want to do it more, makes you feel like a real cyclist, and in no time at all you are riding like one too!”

Being nervous is ok, as well – Glynis of TEAM GLOW said: “If you are nervous it’s because you are stepping out of your comfort zone and into new territories. So be nervous but also be pleased with yourself for taking on the challenge of doing something new and different.”

She added: “Be kind to yourself and your bike – but be best prepared by wearing clothing right for cycling the distance, know your bike is working well, take comfort snacks so you know you’ll have enough energy.”