CYCLISTS in Middlesbrough will still be able to park their bikes in safety after an environmental charity secured further funding for its scheme.

Middlesbrough Environment City (MEC) is celebrating after the Northern Rock Foundation rode to the rescue of its secure cycle parking initiative - Middlesbrough Cycle Centre.

The centre, still the only facility of its kind in the North- East, has 351 members and an average of 85 users a week. It provides cycle racks, showers and changing facilities as well as a cycling information centre.

It also provides work experience for job seekers aged 18 to 24 taking part in MEC's training and work placement The Cycle Task Force.

MEC staff now aim to boost membership further and step up their efforts to promote cycling and walking as alternatives to the car after being awarded £29,825 by the foundation.

Councillor Ron Lowes, Middlesbrough Council executive member for transport and chairman of MEC, said: "I am delighted by this news, Middlesbrough Cycle Centre has been a very important facility over the past two years and the centre can now continue to help make cycling a real alternative to the car for commuters."

For details about the centre, at 71 Gilkes Street, call (01642) 219620 or go to www.middlesbroughcyclecentre.co.uk