PEDAL POWER… Andy Bready from the Department of Regional Development’s Cycling Unit and Anna Henry get on their bike to launch Bike Week 2014, which takes place June 14 – 22.

PEOPLE across Northern Ireland are being urged to get on their bikes and discover the benefits of cycling, as Bike Week 2014 approaches.

Between Saturday 14 June and Sunday 22 June, the public are being encouraged to ditch the car in favour of a bicycle, with a packed programme of cycling events and activities promoting pedal power in towns and cities across Northern Ireland.

Bike Week aims to encourage participation in cycling, inspiring ‘everyday cycling for everyone’ by showing how cycling can easily become part of everyday life and demonstrating the social, health and environmental benefits of cycling.

Commenting on Bike Week 2014, Transport Minister Danny Kennedy said:

“Bike Week offers an opportunity for cyclists of all ages and abilities to get involved in a wide range of events. Northern Ireland has over 1,300kilometres of National Cycle Network cycle lanes and paths meaning cycling can be enjoyed by anyone and everyone throughout the country.

“Cycling is good for our health and fitness levels, as well as the environment and importantly, it assists in reducing traffic congestion. I would urge everybody to get out and get on their bike this Bike Week.”

The Department for Regional Development (DRD) Cycling Unit and its sustainable travel initiative, Travelwise NI will be supporting a programme of events to celebrate Bike Week throughout Northern Ireland.

Children can get involved on Bike to School day on Wednesday 18 June and to mark Bike to Work Day on Friday 20 June, DRD Cycling Unit (Travelwise NI) in partnership with Belfast City Council will host a special Bikers’ Breakfast at Belfast City Hall on Friday 20 June, providing cyclists commuting into the city with a free breakfast or a complimentary take away coffee.

Commenting on Bike Week 2014, Andrew Grieve, Head of the DRD Cycling Unit said; “With bike themed events organised throughout Northern Ireland by local authorities, community groups and cycling groups, there is something for everyone to enjoy during Bike Week 2014, from young children to families and commuters.”

The action-packed programme includes a vast array of events across Northern Ireland including a Pedalling Picnic from Coleraine to Downhill on Sunday 15 June and an adult bike training programme in local community centres throughout Fermanagh from 16 to 22 June, to name but a few.

For further information on Bike Week 2014 events, visit http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/travelwiseni, or check out your local council website for event listings.