Those who like to get around on road bikes or mountain bikes may be delighted with news that the government is providing extra funding to help people get around more using pedal power.

Transport minister Norman Baker has announced another £15 million will be added towards bolstering cycling and other eco-friendly transport, on top of the £560 million Local Sustainable Transport Fund announced in January 2011.

It means transport charity Sustrans will get £8 million to improve cycle routes around England and £7 million will go to the Cycle Rail Working Group to help develop facilities for riders to use the railways more, including better bike storage facilities.

Mr Baker commented: “If we are serious about reducing carbon, then we need to get more people walking and cycling."

Initiatives being promoted buy Sustrans include the production of leaflets offering ideas and advice to families to help them get out with their kids on bikes in the upcoming half-term holidays.