A COUNCIL is telling people 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 urges people to get out and about on two wheels and share pictures on social media.

Made from 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 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 its buildings.

Councillor Peter Brookes, the council’s cycling champion, said: “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.”