Last updated at 10:54, Tuesday, 31 July 2012

THE Lake District’s growing electric bike network is being expanded to the Western Lakes.

ELECTRIC: Peter and Ewan Frost-Pennington in front of Muncaster Castle, with some of the electric bikes

The West Cumbria Electric Bicycle Network will be launched by new business Muncaster Cycles tomorrow, August 1.

The scheme, which allows visitors to travel sustainably using electric bikes, will be based at Muncaster Castle.

The electric bikes allow riders to cycle normally, but have a battery-powered engine which can be used when the rider gets tired, or it gets too hilly.

Isobel Stoddart, Electric Bicycle Network director, said: “We are looking forward to seeing more visitors and locals exploring the unique scenery and attractions around Muncaster, including the beautiful Wasdale and Eskdale valleys.

“We hope they will rediscover the joys of cycling, both as an alternative to getting around by car and also as a fantastic leisure experience enhanced by the boost that e-bikes provide.

“We really hope this will help put West Cumbria on the map as a ‘green’ place to visit, with benefits for local business.”

Route maps have been produced and include trips to Wasdale Head, taking in Wastwater, widely regarded as England’s finest view.

Another popular route is likely to be from Muncaster to Dalegarth Railway Station in the Eskdale Valley, with the option to put the bikes on the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway for the return trip.

Peter Frost-Pennington, of Muncaster Castle, said: “I hope lots of people try this out; it really is fun and there are lots of beautiful routes to explore around Muncaster.”

Electric bikes can travel between 20 and 40 miles before they need to be recharged, depending on a range of factors, including the terrain.

The batteries can be recharged for free at eight charge points highlighted on the route maps, with a ‘top-up’ always within 30 minutes.

A full charge takes four hours.

Katie Read, West Cumbria Tourism manager, said: “This is a great example of private sector partnership work, pro-actively demonstrating how local businesses can make a very real difference in their local area.”

First published at 10:53, Tuesday, 31 July 2012
Published by http://www.nwemail.co.uk