Visitors to customer access points, libraries and leisure centres around County Durham can pick up free cycling rewards this autumn as an incentive to get on their bikes.
Durham County Council is offering anyone who cycles to one of its libraries, customer access points or leisure centres which have cycle parking facilities a free bike seat cover and local cycling leaflet.
The giveaways are part of the council’s #durhamcycling campaign, which encourages more people to get out and about on two wheels. People are encouraged to share and tweet pictures of the #durhamcycling saddle covers to encourage others to join the campaign.
Made from 100 per cent recycled plastics, the handy seat covers will protect saddles from the autumn rain when bikes are parked outside, whilst the free leaflet provides information on all aspects of cycling and includes route maps for local towns.
The map also features lots of helpful tips on cycling safety and security. Visitors can pick up even more cycling advice by collecting a free copy of the Bike Easy book from any library when they arrive by bike.
The council is reviewing cycle parking facilities at Durham County Council buildings and will be providing new stands where there aren’t any currently and will be improving stands that do not meet current standards.
Cllr Peter Brookes, the council’s cycling champion, said: “We’ve extended the campaign because our original trial at selected libraries received such a fantastic response. I really hope the free seat covers and maps will encourage people to travel on two wheels; it is such a great way to experience our beautiful county and cycling allows you to be immersed in your surroundings in a way that you couldn’t in a car.
“Cycling is a great way to travel, either for fun or as a way of commuting. Not only is it cost-effective but it also has fantastic health benefits and even shifting to cycling for just a couple of journeys has a positive impact on the environment.”
The launch of the #durhamcycling campaign complements the Strategic Cycling and Walking Delivery Plan and follows the council’s declaration of a climate emergency for the county and aims to encourage people to think about how they travel, and how they can reduce their carbon footprint.
Further information about cycling, including details of groups and clubs, cycling routes, events and safety tips are available on the council website at www.durham.gov.uk/cycling