A NEW campaign group has launched aiming to get Bridgwater residents on their bikes.

The Bridgwater Area Cycling Campaign aims to bring all the various groups associated with improving cycling in the town together to have one coherent and stronger voice to influence decision makers.

The group follows in the steps on Taunton, which has a similar initiative, and more than 30 cyclists came out to support the official launch at Bridgwater’s famous Blake Statue this morning, (Sunday, April 21).

Organiser Gary Perrett said he wanted to bring the mentality of yesteryear when the majority of Bridgwater’s Cellophane factory employees used to cycle into work.

"An improved cycling offer is something we have needed for many years now," Mr Perrett said.

“This campaign takes the existing but sporadic groups calling for improved cycling routes and encouraging people to cycle more and bring them together to influence the powers that be.

“We have members of local cycling clubs, representatives from The Bridgwater Way initiative, the charity On Your Bike and many others all calling for action to improve cycling infrastructure, reduce traffic, benefit people’s health and help the environment.”

Lucy Workman, manager of the On Your Bike charity in Bridgwater said: “Bridgwater is the ideal location for cycling.

“It has got beautiful surroundings, its relatively flat and there are a lot of people here who would benefit from being able to ride a bicycle.”

A website for the group is being set up for the Bridgwater Area Cycling Campaign but anyone interested in signing up should email bridgwaterareacyclingcampaign@gmail.com.

Mrs Workman added: "We have a survey which is a starting point for our campaign, we are seeking the views of people who live in the Bridgwater area - even those who never cycle.

"We have nearly 100 responses so far but would like a lot more."

To take the survey, visit tinyurl.com/surveybacc.