A RAIL company running trains from Huddersfield has won an award for encouraging passengers to get on their bikes.

Northern Rail has won Train Operator of the Year at the National Cycle Rail Awards for its cycling strategy.

The company has launched a number of bike-friendly initiatives to encourage passengers to get peddling when they leave the train.

Taking bikes on trains for free and without the need to make a reservation are among the ideas.

It also set up a cycle users forum in 2005 with representatives from key groups to help develop a cycling strategy.

Jo North, Northern Rail commercial director, said: “We are committed to promoting cycling as a sustainable and healthy way of starting and finishing your journey to a train station.

“We gave a lot of thought to our cycling strategy and this is a great vote of approval.”

Transport minister Tom Harris MP handed out the award in London.