Cycling: Cycling now a £39m industry

CYCLING is worth £39 million to the economy of the Highlands, according to research commissioned by the Highland Cycle Forum.

The study also found that the health sector could see benefits in the region of £10-15 million.

"Cycling clearly has a big role to play for many areas in terms of green transport, and as someone who has come to the Highlands on cycling holidays for many years now, I can vouch for its importance to the tourist industry," said Mary Alison, Scotland’s physical activity co-ordinator. "But cycling also has an important role to play in improving health."

Ms Alison added: "Lack of physical activity is a serious risk to health in Scotland, but regular, moderate physical activity can help reduce these health risks. Cycling is something that everyone at any age can enjoy and gain benefit from, and the Highlands offers so many fantastic opportunities for cycling with the family."