FLAMBOYANT unicyclist John Greenhalgh turned a few heads during a visit to Blackburn to see his brother.

But the Manchester-based piano tuner is well used to attracting interest as he pedals his way around the highways of the North West.

"I don't think people quite know how to take me," said John who was visiting his brother Stephen, who lives in Granville Road, and his parents, who live in the Lammack area. "When they see me pedalling past it certainly makes them think. People are used to stereotypes, people who won't try anything different, and I am sure many people consider me eccentric."

But there are good reasons for unicycling. John says it is a marvellous way of keeping fit, the upper body is used continually to maintain balance, and the high seat provides a vantage point for seeing over country hedgerows to enjoy the views.

" It is also ideal for looking over everyone's back yard wall," joked John. "Everyone should try it."