NI's leading political figure has got on his bike to back the economic benefits of sustainable travel and the regeneration of the cities.

First Minister Peter Robinson took part in the 'Cycle to the City' Comber bike ride as part of the 15th Anniversary of the National Cycle Network event.

Following his journey, Mr Robinson said: "In taking forward the regeneration of our towns and cities, we need to support our investment in transport with measures to reduce car dependence and promote more sustainable alternatives including walking and cycling."

Recognising the importance of sustainable travel to the local economy, he added: "The availability of walking and cycling infrastructure is a key issue and facilitating increased levels of walking and cycling is not only good for the environment and our health, but it can also play an important role in attracting high value businesses to local areas and investment in our economy."

The 15th Anniversary of the National Cycle Network's event was organised by Sustrans at the Titanic Quarter, Belfast.

Sustrans organised four 'Cycling to the City' exercises from the four outer city areas of Newtownabbey, Lisburn, Comber and Bangor to celebrate the 15th Anniversary of the National Cycle Network.

The event, sponsored by the Travelwise scheme as part of the European Mobility Week/Travelwise Week, raises the profile of cycling as a sustainable travel choice, helping people to Travel Smarter, Live Better.

(GK/BMcC)