AN online project aimed at encouraging people in Redcar and Cleveland to be more active by leaving their cars at home has been developed by a North East web firm.

Yarm-based digital agency dotUK has completed the new website for Sustrans, the national charity that has been commissioned by Redcar & Cleveland Council to deliver the work.

The site, www.activetravel.me, enables users to plan rail and bus journeys in the area, and find out more about events and initiatives such as bike loans and guided walks and rides.

Linda Ford, project co-ordinator, said: "With the increasing cost of fuel, tax, insurance and maintenance, car ownership can be very costly. We are encouraging people to think about the way they travel for more of their everyday journeys, and where possible make changes that benefit their health, pocket and the environment.”Visitors to the site can also access advice on bike maintenance and walking routes alongside maps and other resources.

(CORR)Andy Flisher, founder of dotUK, said: "It's great to be helping a good cause which has such a strong environmental focus and is driven by a desire to reduce carbon emissions in our region."