RAIL passengers can become even more eco-friendly with the confirmation of more cycling facilities at an East Lancashire station.

New secure cycle bays will be created at Blackburn station as part of a £4.7million investment in bike travel across the network.

CCTV and improved lighting will cover the bike compound, which will be controlled by swipe card access.

Regional operator Northern Rail had already unveiled improved provisions at Brierfield and Colne stations, with camera-covered cycle rack and shelter.

And two of the main calling points on the Clitheroe-Manchester line are also set to benefit from upgraded cycle facilites.

City-bound passengers from East Lancs will be able to hire bikes at Bolton and Manchester Victoria stations - and take advantage of new bike repair shops nearby.

Norman Baker, Local Transport Minister, said: “I know these plans will be hugely beneficial to comm-unities and cyclists in the north west.

“They will also help to create jobs and reduce our carbon footprints while making cycling safer and more convenient – further emphas-ising the Government’s dedication to offer sustainable transport for all.”

Another 25 stations across the Northern Rail franchise area, which includes all of East Lancashire, will also see a new bike hire system introduced.

The scheme is based on a Dutch design which helps passengers to complete their journeys in an enviromentally-friendly way.

Locations for the bike hire hubs have not yet been confirmed.