Hexham is preparing for On Yer Bike Tynedale, a bike festival optimistically aimed at bolstering both business and commuter health.

The event, scheduled for September 22, showcases a temporary bike route through crucial city landmarks, with limited car access secured for that day.

Dr David Dixon, who is Hexham's Bicycle Mayor, facilitates such events, as well as promoting alternative transit for residents and instigating essential conversations about transportation practices.

Notably, he has initiated a survey to find out the reasons why Tynedale residents aren't utilising bikes.

The findings are expected to aid in overcoming both physical and psychological hurdles that deter cycling.

Mr Dixon claims that The North East is known for being one of the regions in the UK where bikes are rarely used, typically justified by the hilly terrain and varying weather conditions.

However, recent studies have shown that the transition to wheeler-friendly spaces can promote economic prosperity, especially for small businesses.

A hypothesis backed by successful transitions in Berwick and Carlisle.

Evidence supporting the economic benefits of pedestrian and wheeler investment has been found globally.

He concludes that Tynedale has the potential to boost its business and quality of life as befitting the challenges of the 21st Century and encourages people to give cycling a try.