STUDENTS had a go on a circular cycle as part of a roadshow aiming to promote cycling as a safe and healthy means of transport.

The circular seven-seater cycle is steered by one person while the other six provide pedal power, which drives the back wheels.

It belongs to the York's professional cycling advisory service, Company of Cyclists who used it as an ice-breaker for students and staff at York St John College on the first day of a seven-week programme.

They also showed off their smallest bike, a mini tandem, which is not actually legal on the roads.

The company give out maintenance advice, bike "health-checks" and free waterproof cyclists' overshoes, as well as giving demonstrations of modern city bikes and the chance to have rides on a variety of fun bikes.

A selection of reconditioned cycles will also be available for York St John students and staff to buy and they will be able to pick up the college's new 16-page colour guide to cycling and a wide range of cycling factsheets.

Company of Cyclists' managing director Jim McGurn said: "We send our bike try-out roadshow units all over the country, working for local authorities, schools and corporate businesses.

"We are delighted to be working in our own city, and on such an innovative project.

"The sale of reconditioned bikes at cost is new for us - if it's popular we'll roll it out to other colleges and universities."

The Get Cycling Support Service will operate each Tuesday until March 2 between 10.30am and 3pm at the College's Lord Mayor's Walk site.