Darlington commuters support cycle challenge

More than 11,500 miles of cycling trips have been taken in and around Darlington as a result of a challenge laid down to local employers.

Businesses and organisations have signed up for the Darlington Cycle Challenge, which began on June 22 to encourage more people to cycle to work.

The scheme will finish this Sunday (July 12) and by the end of it around 300 people will have logged more than 1,200 trips by bike.

To encourage businesses to get the most numbers of people out on the road, prizes, including a £500 bicycle, cycling equipment, 400 cinema vouchers and workplace treats, will be given to individuals and organisations logging the most miles and trips.

The challenge is part of Darlington Borough Council’s Local Motion scheme, which aims to get more people out of cars.

Graham Dean, from the project, said: “The response from the town has been quite incredible.

It is inspiring to see so many companies and individuals signing up for the challenge and having fun.

“It would be fantastic if we could also get more women to sign up for the challenge.”

There is still time to sign up for the challenge. Visit darlingtoncyclechallenge.org.uk for more information.