DURHAM County Council is holding a bike surgery at Clayport Library, Durham, on Saturday, when people can have their bicycles checked.

Experts from Cycle Force 2000 will carry out the free safety checks between 11am and 2pm at the library, after which people can join in a short ride along the River Wear.

There will also be free cycling maps, safety information and guided ride leaflets, and Durham Police will be on hand to security-mark bicycles.

County council travel awareness officer Elaine Wood said: "Now that the winter weather is hopefully behind us, spring is a great time to start thinking about cycling again, either for pleasure, health or short journeys when the car is not really needed.

"The cycle route network in the county is developing all the time, and the bike surgery is a good way to ensure that your bike is up to scratch before setting off."

People who cannot get to the surgery but would like cycle maps or guided ride leaflets are asked to call Ben Dellow on 0191-383 3721.