IF you want to feel fitter and help the environment at the same time - then get on your bike.

That's the message from National Bike Week which starts today (SAT) and is aimed at promoting cycling as a 'green' mode of transport and something that can make you feel healthier.

Bolton Council's cycling advisory group, which encourages cycling in the borough, has teamed up with local cycling groups and is urging people to take part in the Five Mile Challenge as part of the week which runs from today until June 9.

The week starts with a Doctor Bike Clinic today on Bolton town hall square between 10am and 4pm when people can have their cycles checked over.

It's a free two-wheel MoT and if there is something wrong, owners will be referred to a bike shop or routine maintenance can be done on the spot.

There will also be information leaflets on cycle safety, a bike will be set up on rollers by Bolton Clarion Club and Bolton Cyclists Touring Club will be promoting biking breaks and letting people have a go on a tandem. There will also be a display of mountain bikes courtesy of Bolton Mountain Bikes.

On Wednesday it's Bike To work Day, when people are asked to leave their car at home and pedal to work. Thursday it's the Five Mile Challenge, a bike ride to Rivington Barn tea room led jointly by Bolton CTC, Bolton Clarion CC, Lancashire Road Club and Horwich Cycling Club. Riders leave the town hall square at 6.30pm.

Cllr Jack Foster, chairman of Bolton's planning and environment committee, said that the council was fully behind moves to make cycling more popular and was actively including cycle facilities in highway and traffic schemes through its Cycling and Recreational Network for Bolton.

"It's an economic, environmentally friendly way of getting around and it's a proven way of keeping fit. According to the British Medical Association riding fives miles four times a week halves your risk of heart disease and regular cyclists enjoy a fitness level equal to that of someone 10 years younger. Our cycling network is increasing all the time and we are currently installing more and more safety measures for cyclists to try and promote cycling," he said. Lookout TV licence dodgers

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