A project that aims to get young women more interested in cycling has launched in Islington.

As part of the project, called “This Girl Can Islington”, pupils at three secondary schools will have the chance to design and create their own cycling gear to help them feel more comfortable on a bike.

They will be assisted by one of the cycling industry’s leading designers from Rapha – whose clients include Olympic champion Sir Bradley Wiggins.

Students will also learn how to be safe and confident taking to the roads on a bike through Islington Council’s Bikeability programme.

The project, which is a collaboration between Islington Council, Transport for London and Greenwich Leisure Ltd, will end with a fashion show in Highbury Fields in the summer, where pupils can enjoy a picnic before modelling their new clothes while cycling down a special runway.

Cllr Claudia Webbe, the council’s transport boss, said: “This innovative project was the result of looking at the underlying causes of lower rates of cycling among young women in Islington compared to young men.

“Addressing concerns around fashion and practicality in such a hands-on way is key to getting more young women cycling – and our bikeability training will give them the skills and road safety awareness to make the most of their new-found confidence.

“I look forward to seeing the fruits of this pioneering, fun and engaging project at Highbury Fields this summer.”