DOZENS of school children tested out the cycle paths on a new stretch of road in the East End.

Pupils from St Michael's, St Anne's, Dalmarnock and Quarrybrae primary schools pedalled their way round an obstacle course set up on the new stretch of road, that runs from Oatlands new neighbourhood, over Rutherglen Bridge, through Dalmarnock to Gallowgate.

The 2.6km four-lan carriageway, called The Clyde Gateway, will open officially next Thursday.

The primary six and seven pupils were the first to use the dedicated cycle lanes, which run in both directions, and the extended footway from Dalmarnock Station to the new NISA Velodrome and Celtic Park.

Road safety officers from Glasgow City Council and Strathclyde Police cyclists and motorcyclists joined the youngsters to teach them about road safety.

Dr Bike staff also offered advice on cycle maintenance.

Nancy Cluny, head teacher of Dalmarnock Primary School, said: "The children had a ball.

"They returned to school chatting about what they had learned on staying safe while cycling near trafficl.

"It was a fantastic chance for them to build their confidence when cycling on roads and learn about and keeping their bikes road worthy.

"We are always looking to encourage our young people to adopt a healthy and active lifestyle and cycling is a big part of that.

"Hopefully with our proximity to the Commonwealth Arena and Velodrome this is something that we will be able to do more of in the coming years."

The new road is part of the infrastructure being built for the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

Brian Devlin, executive director of Land and Environmental Services, said: "Improving the cycling and pedestrian facilities along the route is just one of the key objectives of the new Clyde Gateway.

"It will be of tremendous benefit to this part of Glasgow."

matty.sutton@ eveningtimes.co.uk