PEOPLE across the region are being invited to switch to two wheels this Cycle September – a challenge aimed at encouraging more people to cycle and walk.

West Yorkshire Combined Authority has joined forces with Cycle September organisers Love to Ride for the UK-wide event aimed at getting more people to discover the benefits of cycling by taking part in a cycle challenge.

Registering on the Love to Ride website allows participants to log miles, set goals and earn badges for cycling to work for a week, riding 100 miles or encouraging a friend or colleague to take part.

Councillor Kim Groves, Chair of West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s Transport Committee, said: “We know encouraging more of us to travel by bike or on foot not only boosts people’s health and saves individual’s money, it also brings wider environmental and economic benefits for us all, which is why we want to make cycling and walking a natural choice for short, everyday journeys.

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“We want as many people as possible to get involved in Cycle September - whether you cycle every day or whether you haven't been on a bike in years, if you’re cycling for transport or for fun, whatever time and wherever you’re going.

“Last year, more than 1,800 people across West Yorkshire cycled nearly 270,000 miles during Cycle September, and we’re hoping to make this year even bigger and better.”

Last year Calderdale Council won the challenge, with over 60 staff taking part, including 12 new riders who cycled nearly 6,000 miles between them.

Love to Ride can be easily connected to many popular cycling apps such as Strava and Ride Report, which will then automatically record the miles cycled on Love to Ride and enter riders into prize draws.

Register for Cycle September at www.lovetoride.net/cityconnect

From route information to free adult cycle training and support for businesses find out how CityConnect can help you at www.cyclecityconnect.co.uk/get-cycling/