ORGANISATIONS in Preston and South Ribble are being invited to help their employees 'get on their bike' with the help of a Lancashire County Council initiative to build cycle racks.

Bike Aid, part of the county council's campaign to promote and fund environmentally friendly travel, is making cash available for the scheme, now in its second year.

More than 50 schools, businesses, hospitals and libraries across the county have already signed up to the initiative, but county council bosses are making a push for more workers to come on board.

To date more than 200 cycle racks have been fitted across the county at various sites.

Applicants will be required to make a contribution towards the total installation cost of the cycle racks, which stands at ten per cent for schools and half the cost for businesses.

County Councillor Nora Ward, cabinet member for Highways and Transportation, said: "People regularly tell us they would be more likely to choose other forms of transport to get to work if the back-up facilities were available.

"This is a great way for businesses and schools to work together with the county council to achieve a greener and healthier Lancashire."

To apply for funding assistance for either cycle racks or secure lockers telephone Collette Fleming, business officer for TravelWise on 01772 264144.