A NETWORK of bike libraries is being extended following the success of the scheme.

Thirty projects are already operating at locations across Yorkshire, including University Academy Keighley (UAK).

Now, sponsor Yorkshire Bank has launched a new round of funding and is urging community groups interested in setting-up a venture to apply for grant aid.

Bike libraries offer bicycles on free loan and some stage activities ranging from family rides to skills training.

At UAK, the scheme – run with Keighley CyKle – provides bikes for children and families between 9.30am and noon on Saturdays and 6pm and 8pm on Wednesdays.

Yorkshire Bank – in conjunction with Welcome to Yorkshire initiative, Cycle Yorkshire – launched the first bike library last year, since when about 20,000 cycling opportunities have been offered to youngsters.

Spokesman, Fraser Kennedy, said: "We are hugely impressed with the progression so far of the bike libraries.

"The quality and reach of the community organisations that apply to the scheme for support continues to be fantastic.

"Cycling in Yorkshire has a very strong volunteer ethos, with parents, teachers and community representatives working hard to get children riding bikes.

"We're delighted this latest funding will help to grow the bike libraries."

The scheme also has donation stations, where people can take unwanted bikes that are then refurbished to be loaned out.

Funding applications should be e-mailed to Rachel Davies via rdavies@yorkshire.com by October 31. Visit bikelibraries.yorkshire.com for more details.

Anyone wishing to use the Keighley scheme should call 01535 210333.