PEOPLE who live, study or work in Hillingdon can discover the benefits of cycling regularly thanks to Hillingdon Council's cycle loan scheme.

The borough launched the scheme in March and has given 59 people the chance to find out if bike ownership suits them.

They each paid £20 to loan a bike, as well as safety equipment including helmets and hi-vis belts, for one month.

When they collect their bike they are also given information about cycle training and guided rides in the borough.

Once the month is over they can either give back the bike or choose to buy it at cost price. Since the scheme began, 17 people have chosen to buy the bikes.

Ayomi Gure, 38, from North Hillingdon who bought her bike through the loan scheme, said: "I had so much fun with my two young children, exploring Hillingdon on our bikes.

We discovered places we had never noticed before. I enjoyed it so much that deciding to buy the bike I had borrowed was easy.

“Now I have become so much more confident, I can keep up with my children! My husband is now looking to buy one, too.”

To find out more, visit www.hillingdon.gov.uk/cycling