Stunell on his bike to promote cycling

2.20.51pm UTC (GMT +0000) Tue 10th Jun 2008

Andrew Stunell on Parliamentary Bike Ride

Andrew Stunell MP saddled up with more than 25 MPs and Peers for an annual Parliamentary Bike Ride in London today, to kick off National Bike Week.

The MPs were put through their paces by a Bikeability cycle instructor to demonstrate the benefits of learning how to ride a bike safely. Bikeability is the 21st century cycling proficiency test, designed to give children and young people the skills and confidence to cycle on today's roads.

The Hazel Grove MP said:

"Cycling is a great way to keep active, is environmentally friendly and fun. I want to encourage as many people as possible to use pedal power to travel to work, school and local amenities.

"I think it's vital that that more of Britain's children, and adults, learn to cycle safely.

"I am delighted to be taking part in the Bike Ride today to show how much support there is in Parliament for improving conditions for cyclists on our roads."

ENDS

Notes to editors:

1. Bike Week (14-22 June 2008) is one of the UK's biggest annual promotions of cycling.

2. For more information visit www.bikeweek.org.uk

3. Mr Stunell is vice-chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group for Cycling, which aims to promote the use of bicycles as a mode of transport and to raise the profile of cycling.