Southall residents will be able to borrow bicycles for a month as part of an Ealing Council scheme to encourage more people to cycle.

Residents can choose their bike when they sign up to the Southall Try Cycling scheme and will also be given cycle equipment and training. They must commit to cycling for at least half their journeys from 28 April to 26 May and complete an online diary of their experiences.

They will also have the chance to take part in group cycle rides and maintenance classes. If they are bitten by the cycling bug at the end of the trial they will be able to buy their bicycles at discounts of up to 40 per cent.

The scheme has been funded using money given by Transport for London to Ealing Council to improve transport in the borough.

Southall was chosen because far fewer people cycle in the area, according to the council’s annual traffic survey 2011.

Residents can now register online and will be given a chance to try out bikes before choosing theirs. The deadline for registration is Wednesday, 18 April but the 40 bikes will be offered on a first come first served basis.

Executive Director of Regeneration and Housing, Pat Hayes said: "This is a great opportunity for those who are keen to try cycling before they commit to buying a bicycle and get expert support to help them ride more confidently."

"Cycling is a healthy and environmentally-friendly way to get around. If more people travelled by bicycle rather than by car in Southall we could see a reduction in congestion and pollution in the area."

For more information visit www.cycleexperience.com/try
Participants must provide credit or debit card details for security purposes when they collect their bicycle.