A CAMPAIGN encouraging people to walk, cycle or use public transport has been launched in the district.

The 12-week initiative aims to showcase alternatives to the car, and raise awareness of the potential health and financial benefits.

Offers available through the West Yorkshire Ticketing Company MCard app will also be highlighted, together with support – such as free training sessions – that can be accessed to develop cycling confidence.

Ten members of the public will talk about their own travel habits and small changes people can make to enable more environmentally-friendly and cost-effective travel.

Amongst them is Belle Whiteley, from Gilstead, who describes why walking is so important to her – not just for work, leisure and walking her dog, but because she's unable to drive due to a visual impairment.

The campaign will be promoted through social media, direct mail, billboards and digital sites, as well as bus advertising.

The ticketing company is leading the Walk It Ride It venture with West Yorkshire Combined Authority.

Tracy Brabin, mayor of West Yorkshire, says: "Every trip matters, and everyone makes a difference.

"We want to encourage people to consider their travel habits and make the right choice for the right journey.

"This campaign aims to do that by using real-life stories from people living within our communities to shine a light on their personal travel tales and how they are making a difference.

"We’re working hard to ensure transport in the region is easy, simple and affordable to use, making a better-connected West Yorkshire."

Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, Bradford Council's portfolio holder for planning, regeneration and transport, says: "Sustainable travel options such as walking, cycling and taking public transport can help people save money and improve their health and wellbeing, and are good for the environment. Through sharing people’s stories, the Walk It Ride It campaign will help promote these travel options to the wider community.

"Bradford district has a great track record when it comes to initiatives that improve people’s wellbeing and tackle environmental issues, so it’s fantastic that the mayor chose this area as the place from which to launch the campaign."

Richard Armitage, chair of MCard, says every household in the region can benefit from the venture.

He adds: "I urge you to spend more of your transport budget on the bus, train, walking and cycling.

"This will cut your travel costs."

For more about the campaign, visit walkitrideitwy.com.