STOURBUG founder Russell Eden has been appointed president of the popular cycling club in recognition of his dedication to the cause.

After six years as chairman Mr Eden stepped down from his role at the helm of Stourbridge Bicycle Users Group towards the end of the year but in honour of his commitment to the cause he has been made the new president of the group.

The post was left vacant after the death of Stourbridge councillor Malcolm Knowles.

John Plant has taken over as the new chairman of the group which was started in 2006 to challenge Stourbridge women with no cycling experience to get fit and complete a 45-mile ride from the town to Stratford.

It now boasts more than 250 members and last year it organised the Dudley Diabetes charity ride which saw more than 300 riders of all ages and abilities completing courses of up to 100 miles.

Mr Plant said: “This is more than a biking club, it has brought together people with a common interest and has given them the opportunities to become fitter, make new friends and to meet challenges they would have thought impossible.”

Stourbug organises weekly on and off-road rides for people of all abilities, at weekends and on weekdays.

Anyone interested in joining can contact the club by emailing membership@stourbug.org.uk or check out www.stourbug.org.uk