"Labour is working with local authorities, schools and parents to make a real difference to the way people travel, encourage healthier lifestyles and develop more sustainable communities.   

"In Castle Point we can help a generation rediscover their bikes and give children the skills they need to cycle safely and responsibly on our roads.  

"Cycling provides an excellent means of exercise and also helps tackle road congestion and pollution. 

"Authorities across Essex can now apply to become new Cycle Demonstration Towns and receive money to encourage people onto their bikes and offer local children the chance to be trained to cycle safely. 

"I welcome the Government's massive increase in funding for cycling and, working with Cycle England, the commitment to encouraging more people onto their bikes, even more safe links for children to cycle to school and the creation of cycle parking spaces." 

 Ruth Kelly, Secretary of State for Transport said:  

"Cycling is good for your health and fitness and helps tackle congestion on the roads and improve local air quality. 

"Bikeability training and Cycling Demonstration Towns have proven a great success but we can go further. I hope local authorities will bid for a slice of the £140m funding I've announced, so that more local children are trained and equipped to cycle safely and responsibly, with more towns providing facilities and support to encourage people onto their bikes."