SPECIAL guests at Beer Primary School this week in the run-up to the Tour of Britain were representatives of the South West Bike Academy. The only female member of the group, Greta Junker, and team manager, David Walters, met with excited youngsters at th

SPECIAL guests at Beer Primary School this week in the run-up to the Tour of Britain were representatives of the South West Bike Academy.

The only female member of the group, Greta Junker, and team manager, David Walters, met with excited youngsters at the school on Tuesday to offer cycling advice and encouragement.

Greta spoke to the pupils during their assembly before she officially opened the new bike shelter, which had been built over the summer thanks to a Devon County Council School Travel Grant Plan.

The 18-year-old rider, who has been involved in organising the South West stages, said: "We have been promoting healthy living, safe bike road use and encouraging the children to take up cycling and cycle to school- it is hoped we encourage the next generation of Britain's cyclists."

The children were shown a short film about last year's Tour of Britain and Greta explained a little about the race and professional cycling.

Greta, who has been cycling since she was 10, added: "Through my own cycling I got so much help and support and I feel by going back to schools I can give something back.

"It is fabulous how involved the schools are. The teachers are very encouraging which reflects in the children, particularly in Beer as they have shown such interest."

Greta hopes that in the future there will be a women's version of the Tour of Britain and she hopes more girls will take up cycling.

Martin O'Mahony, head teacher, said: "I think it is a fantastic motivational tool for us as a school to promote cycling and it shows we really take it seriously.

"We hope to show that cycling is accessible to everybody and Greta's visit has motivated the girls."

The little ones decorated their bikes in Tour of Britain jersey colours especially for visit and they will all have the opportunity to watch the race as it passes through Seaton today.

Mr O'Mahony added: "The race has had a really big impact. It has been really good for the area and it will hopefully encourage other investment.