More residents and employees across B&NES will soon be able to reap the benefits of pedal power, thanks to additional funding secured by the West of England Combined Authority.

The Combined Authority, led by Metro Mayor Dan Norris, has won £248,000 from the Government to buy e-bikes, expand e-bike loan schemes and cycle training.

Metro Mayor Dan Norris said: “Given that our area is rather hilly, I think e-bikes are especially key for us.

“I also want to move away from the idea that cycling is something that’s only for lycra-clad fitness fanatics – with an e-bike so many more people can use this form of transport and you get to your meeting without getting hot and sweaty!”

The additional funding will be used to:

• Purchase e-bikes and fund a range of supporting activities such as expanding the existing e-bike loan schemes, bikeability and cycle training.

• Provide grants for community organisations who can support access to e-cycles in their community.

• Continue the Wheels to Work project.

• Provide bike security, such as on-street cycle hangars.

• Purchase adapted e-cycles and fund outreach activities.