A COUNCIL is urging residents to get out on their bike and pedal their way to fitness.

A total of 20,000 fold-out maps aimed at encouraging people to adopt a healthier lifestyle have been printed, offering a choice of cycling opportunities across East Cleveland.

Janet Easley, Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council's travel awareness and monitoring officer, said: "We want to increase the number of people that get on their bikes for various reasons.

"It could be commuting, combining exercise with a reason going to work.

"Or it could be that trip to the shop to buy a paper - why not cycle?"

Free copies of the guide are available in all the borough's libraries, tourist information centres and council offices.

The Mayor of Redcar and Cleveland, Councillor Norah Cooney, officially launched the first cycle guide to the area on Redcar seafront yesterday.

The council's road safety unit will also be distributing the guides and offering free bike safety checks outside the Stray Caf on the Coast Road, Redcar, tomorrow and at Station Square, Saltburn on Thursday, both from 11am to 1pm.

The guide, which also contains useful telephone numbers and places to visit, plus tips for safe cycling, is available on the council's website at www.redcar-cleveland.gov.uk

Copies are available by contacting Janet Easley on (01287) 612544.