RAIL users in Bolton are being encouraged to cycle to stations and take bikes on to trains following new proposals from the industry watchdog.

The Strategic Rail Authority wants train operating companies to boost cycle use and increase the number of bike parking facilities at railway stations across the country.

The SRA has published a draft policy which aims to get people on to their bikes and cycle rather than drive to stations.

Jim Steer, managing director of Strategic Planning at the SRA, said: "The SRA is committed to encouraging cycling in conjunction with travel by rail. Our policy is designed to ensure that the rail industry plays a key role in promoting cycle use within an integrated transport system."

Local cycling enthusiasts welcomed the moves to encourage cycling to stations and better facilities for taking bikes onto trains.

Consultation on the document will be held before a new policy is published in the autumn.

First North Western, which operates trains through Bolton, has a cycle friendly policy allowing cyclists to take their bikes on to trains free of charge.

At Bolton train station in Trinity Street, there are facilities for cyclists which allow them to leave their bikes.

Tony Bowles, secretary of Bolton Clarion Cycling Club, said: "For a couple of years now Bolton has had lock-up facilities for people to leave their bikes. Anything that encourages people to cycle rather than to drive is a good thing."

He believes that more space should be provided for cyclists to take their bikes on to trains.

He said: "There needs to be better facilities for cyclists making train journeys. In the 1950s train companies used to provide whole carriages for cyclists.

"Now it can be rather inconvenient for cyclists when there are more than two cyclists who want to get onto a train at the same time."

FNW allows passengers to carry their bicycles on reservable services, but advance reservations are required and is limited to two per train.

A spokesman for First North Western, said: "We are happy to carry accompanied cycles on our services, except where it would clearly create considerable inconvenience or a safety risk to other passengers."

On other FNW services, space is allocated on a "first come first served" basis subject to space being available and conductors have right of refusal if several cyclists join a particular train.

Tandems, tricycles, "Rann" style towed trailers and any form of motorised cycle are not allowed on FNW trains.

To make a cycle reservation with FNW contact their helpline on 0845 6040231. The helpline is open on Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm and weekends from 9am to 5pm.