BRADFORD has played its part in cycling’s multi-million impact in Yorkshire.

British Cycling and Sky joined forces in 2009 to increase participation in the cycling.

And the organisation today released results of research which estimates the partnership in Yorkshire has seen £7m saved in health care costs and seen £3.5m invested into the economy, through people buying bikes and cycling equipment.

It has also seen 177,257 people in the county inspired to ride their bike regularly, with 2.5 million people made aware of the partnership between the group. A total of 15,651 new commuting cyclists have been recorded.

There has been 159 new cycling routes created in the county, including the £29m Cycle Superhighway which runs between Leeds and Bradford city centre.

Ginny Leonard, City Connect’s communications and engagement co-ordinator, said: “It is all about making the most of the popularity and impetus cycling has.

“We now have the infrastructure to get more and more people into cycling.

“We want to encourage more and more people to travel on their bikes to and from work."

Taras Stefanyszyn, a member of Bradford Cycle Club, which started last November and now has more than 200 members, said: “Integration of people of all groups to cycle with us has been our biggest legacy.

“We have people of all religions riding together with us. Cycling brings people together.”

The Sky Ride held in Bradford in June attracted about 5,000 people to get on their bikes.

It is the last year Sky will be the sponsor and British Cycling is due to announce a new principal partner later this year.

Phil Barker, Bradford Council’s assistant director sport and culture, said: “In Bradford we have worked hard with key partners to encourage more people to cycle.

“We have a diverse cycling offer and a strong partnership with British Cycling built over a number of years.

"Given the economic as well as health benefits we encourage more people to take up cycling.”