Partially-sighted Olive Smith had not ridden a bike since she was ten-years-old.

But Mrs Smith, of Didcot, is now back in the saddle thanks to a scheme run by the Ryder-Cheshire Volunteers, which helps people with physical disabilities take part in sport.

Mrs Smith took to the road on a tandem recently donated to the charity.

She sat behind sport and fitness co-ordinator Theo Johnson.

Olive and Theo

After the cycle ride Mrs Smith said: "It was marvellous fun. I really enjoyed it. When can I ride again?"

The date of her next outing will depend on finding a volunteer to take her out on the bike again.

The charity helps people with disabilities from all over south Oxfordshire, who, were it not for the charity would find it impossible to participate in any sport.

The charity pairs them up with volunteers who share the same interest. This allows them to enjoy whatever leisure or fitness activity they want to.

Mrs Johnson, a former international squash player, said members and volunteers were matched to meet on a regular basis at mutually-convenient times at either at home or at sports centres.

Mrs Johnson said the new tandem would make a real difference to the charity's work.

"Olive was our first member to use the bicycle and she wants to use it again as soon as we can find a volunteer to ride with her," said Mrs Johnson.

The Ryder-Cheshire Volunteers run group sessions for swimmers at Didcot Wave as well as sessions for weight training and gym activities.

Volunteers are asked to give up around an hour per week or a couple of hours per month.

Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer or finding out more about the charity's scheme should call Mrs Johnson on 0118 972 2794.