THE last time I rode a bike was when I was a student.

A couple of mates decided we were going to take a trip out on bikes, and not having one of my own (it had been stolen), I was lent their "spare", a dilapidated BMX without brakes and buckled wheels.

Thankfully, I survived, but the experience had been terrifying and has put me off two-wheeled transport for some time.

It was with some trepidation, then, that I arrived at Herlington BMX track, home of the Peterborough Phantoms. Vice-chairman of the club Chas Scrosbee could not have been more welcoming, and lent me the gear I needed to give it a bash, but I was still a bit worried as I mounted my borrowed BMX, particularly as I saw the young members belting around the track with all the confidence in the world.

I'm all arms and legs, you see, so it took me a while to get used to the small bike, but as soon as I got going, it all came back to me.

Chas's 15-year-old son Arran showed me around the track, and gave me some tips on the best way to handle the many bumps and jumps on the track, which weren't as intimidating as they looked from afar.

Although wary at first, Arran told me the only way I would get round would be to put everything into it on the straights, and as I picked up speed, I realised I hadn't felt like this for years – I was absolutely loving it.

The young members of the club were simply incredible in the way they flew around the track, and Chas explained that these youngsters will almost always beat the club's adult members in races.

With about 30 members, the club has been going since 1981 and has members ranging from six to 40 years of age.

The Phantoms had pulled off something of a coup earlier this year when it was asked to host round three of the British Cycling Autumn National, on October 21.

The track had handled BMX events over the summer so well it was selected as the venue to host dozens of top riders in October.

Best of luck to them.

Why do it...
For the rush!

What it costs...
Good BMXs start at about £200. Membership of the club costs £12 for a year, which includes access to the track and the club's first-aiders and coaches.

What you need...
Some bravery, but all equipment will be provided by the club for beginners.

Where to go...
The club meets on Thursdays at the Herlington track. The new season starts in April.

More information
www.phantomsbmx.ukonline.co.uk