See West Sussex from the saddle, County Hall urges

On your bike ... that's the message of a new leaflet published by the county council which aims to encourage people to explore West Sussex by bicycle. Cycling in West Sussex is available from libraries, tourist information centres and cycle shops and has been produced by the county planning officer.

It contains a wealth of information about the best ways to explore the quiet lanes, bridleways and byways of the countryside by bike.

Details of the various route packs obtainable are included, as well as suggestions for places to stay and visit on the way. The leaflet also explains how best to negotiate public rights of way, and looks at the dos and don'ts for safe cycling. Information on cycle shops offering a hire and repair service is also featured.

Cycling in West Sussex takes a closer look at cycling by train, highlighting the excellent rail connections across West Sussex and with London. Apart from trains on busy commuter routes, most trains will carry cycles - often free of charge - so that cyclists can start or finish a trip in a convenient place.

The publication of the leaflet is particularly timely: the world famous Tour De France comes to West Sussex on July 7. Chris Hare, chairman of West Sussex County Council's rights of way sub-committee said.'Cycling is both an environmentally friendly form of transport and a healthy one.

'By using the bike instead of the car, people are helping themselves, as well as society in general.'