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National Bike Week (14-22 June) - Challenge for Northumberland

Commuters are being encouraged out of their cars and onto their bikes during National Bike Week, 14-22 June 2008. Active Tynedale and British Cycling are laying down a challenge to see how many people can cycle 25 miles in total during Bike Week.

Northumberland is one of ten counties taking part in the Bike Week commuter challenge being promoted through British Cycling’s Everyday Cycling initiative. The challenge is aimed at all cyclists including anyone wanting to dust off their old bike and get ready for summer cycling.

Steve Cram, Chairman of Northumberland Sport said: 'It would be great to see hundreds, if not thousands of Northumberland people getting on their bikes during Bike Week and cycling to work, even if it’s just for one day! Cycling is a fantastic way to travel, it gets you fit and saves a load of money on transport.'

'We’re asking people to keep track of their cycling for the duration of Bike Week to log miles on www.everydaycycling.com/northumberland. At the end of the week we’ll be able to work out exactly how many miles have been completed, how much money has been saved on fuel and how much fitter everyone is.’

‘For anyone completing and logging 25miles during the week there is also the opportunity to win a ?400 bike.’

Cycling is a low impact sport and one of the easiest ways to fit exercise into your daily routine. If you’ve not cycled for a while Everyday Cycling has some basic tips that will help you get back on your bike.

Make sure you’re wearing lightweight clothing and a helmet, and that your bike is roadworthy.

Cycling can eat up more than 500 calories an hour, depending on your weight, fitness and type of cycling that you are doing. As well as toning your legs and bottom, going up hills or off road will also work your upper body.

To sign up for the challenge or for more tips, please visit Everyday Cycling and start recording your cycling miles today!