Cycling in Cornwall just got a whole lot easier - if you want to visit Helston at least.

Coinciding nicely with the latest national initiative to encourage cycling, new cycle racks are now in place near the top of Horse and Jockey Lane, on the edge of the Trengrouse Way Extension car park.

It is through a joint project between Lizard Peninsula Friends of the Earth and Helston Community Interest Company, with the aim of encouraging people more people into the town on bikes.

The racks mean they can now leave their bicycles somewhere secure while they shop in town, with easy access back out again.

Speaking for the group, Yvonne Lewer said: "People are being encouraged to cycle, but Meneage Street is very difficult to negotiate with a bike, especially walking against the one-way system and worse still now with the extra distancing because of Covid-19.

"The new racks provide somewhere that bikes can be safely locked. These racks will also complement some of the other the projects being undertaken by Helston Community Interest Company, who have exciting plans to encourage and facilitate more cycling both in and around the town.”

Read more: Helston would get new cycle link and bus service in £1 million project underway

The racks themselves were paid for out of the John Mackay Fund, a bequest left to the Lizard Peninsula Friends of the Earth when he died some years ago, while Helston Town Council covered the cost of the installation.

Group treasurer Jacqie Levin said: "Last year John’s money enabled Lizard Peninsula Friends of the Earth to also provide the drinking fountain and bottle filler at the Lakeside Cafe in Coronation Park, and has funded our annual John Mackay Award made to local individuals, businesses or groups who have made a contribution to improving Helston’s environment and sustainability.

"Due to Covid-19 the award hasn’t been presented this year, but we will be grateful for any suggestions for 2021.”

Nominations for the award can be emailed to lizpenfoe@gmail.com