THE search is on for an ambassador to raise the profile of cycling in Cumbria.

A Bicycle Mayor in Cumbria is the idea of Richard Ingham, a cycling advocate, who has brought the concept back from Holland.

Mr Ingham said: "In Amsterdam, 55% of all trips are now done by bike – up from 20% in the 1980s."

The first step to elect a Bicycle Mayor has been taken at a first meeting of the support group with twenty people coming together from a wide range of cycling interests – and all with a strong desire to see more everyday journeys done by bike. The committee is calling for nominations for Bicycle Mayor. Members of the support group will be entitled to vote for their preferred candidate.

Members of the public in support can contact Mr Ingham, e-mail richardc.ingham@hotmail.co.uk.