BOSSES are being given grants to help get staff on their bikes.

Worcestershire County Council is offering the money to Worcester firms who make it easier for their employees to get to work using environmentally-friendly forms of transport.

Cycling, walking and car-sharing will all qualify for the cash as part of the council's five-year Worcester Choose How You Move project to reduce reliance on pollution-spewing cars.

Lump sums of £5,000 will be available for things such as cycle storage lockers, better signs for people walking to work, shower facilities for staff who walk or cycle in, or dedicated parking spaces for those who share lifts.

To qualify, firms must match the cost and also promise to set up an employer travel plan to persuade their staff to take part.

John Smith, the council's cabinet member for environment, said: "This is a superb opportunity for employers within the city to assist their employers in reducing the reliance on the car.

"These grants could also help to facilitate a healthy workforce - we're anticipating a high response to this offer.

The county council got a £3.5m grant from the Department of Transport to fund the scheme, aimed at tackling congestion and pollution caused by people relying on cars to get around Worcester.

The council warns that gunding is limited so anyone interested in applying should contact Heather Mead for an application form as soon as possible on 01905 768473 or e-mail her at: hmead@

worcestershire.gov.uk