PASSENGERS at Warrington Central are being encouraged to park and ride after £35,000 was spent on new bike racks.

Train operator First TransPennine Express (FTPE) unveiled the new multi-use cycle parking systems and cycle wheeling ramps at Warrington Central station.

Passengers can park their bike as normal, inserting a £1 coin into the lock and securing their bike using a chain and key, which is supplied. The stand can be used for as long as required and the cyclist will receive their money back in return for the key.

British Transport Police (BTP) were on hand offering safety and security advice to cycle users, along with providing free identification markings for customers’ bikes to ward off thieves.

The new cycle racks represent an investment which been funded through the Department for Transport’s (DfT) Cycle Rail Working Group Grant.

The cash pot aims to improve integration between cycling and train travel.