On your bike! For the Commuter Challenge

Campaigners are urging Rochdale folk to get on their bikes as part of the Commuter Challenge.

Bike Week 2009 (13 – 21 June) is encouraging people across Greater Manchester to take the CycleGM Commuter Challenge and cycle to work at least once – with a chance to win £100.

People can take part in the Commuter Challenge on an individual basis or can register as a business, organisation, school or college and take part as a team. There are four £100 prizes - a prize draw for individuals and prizes for the company, organisation or education facility who collectively cycle the most miles during Bike Week.

Over 20 businesses, organisations and Councils across Greater Manchester have already signed up for the Commuter Challenge.

Cycling to work makes sense and is a fantastic way to improve your health, whatever your current condition. Cycling can help people:

Graeme Sherriff, Manchester Transport Campaign Coordinator said: “Many people think that doing regular exercise is time consuming and expensive, but it does not have to be. People can incorporate exercise into their routines by cycling for 15-30 minutes (2 - 5 miles) to and from work or study every day instead of taking the car.

“Over 50% of the car journeys in Greater Manchester are less than 5 miles and with our congested roads, cycling can often be quicker and is certainly cheaper and healthier than driving.”