THE Lancaster area has been short-listed to become a 'beacon' town to show how increased investment can encourage people to get on their bikes.

The city is in line to become one of five ning 'cycling demonstration' towns which will each receive £500,000 a year from the Department of Transport for three years - to be matched by a similar sum from sources including the county council and European Regional Development Fund.

Eight towns and one London borough have been short-listed and are now being assessed by members of Cycling England, the Government funded body behind the scheme.

Should Lancaster be among the winners, the extra money will be spent on measures including filling in the missing links in the district's cyclepath network, better signage and more cycle parking places.

Cllr Janice Hanson says: "Promoting cycling in Lanc-aster district is a priority for the council. We have an excellent track record of investment in cycleways so it is really good news that our efforts have been recognised by Cycling England in short-listing us."