Public enthusiasm for the Tour de France’s Epping Forest visit will be harnessed to encourage more people to get out on two wheels.

Today (June 21), Essex County Council adopted a new ‘cycling strategy’ to encourage Essex residents, workers and visitors to embrace the activity’s health benefits.

The move comes after the county hosted some of the world’s top international cycling events, such as the Women’s Tour, Olympic mountain biking and the Tour de France.

In July 2014, the world-famous race ran through Epping Forest, from Willingale down to Buckhurst Hill, before heading into Redbridge.

Thousands of people lined the streets, cheering on the racers and enjoying a party atmosphere.

Councillor Ray Gooding, the council’s ‘cycling champion’, said: “The Essex Cycling Strategy will build on the excitement and enthusiasm Essex has shown while playing host to recent international cycling events… we want to ensure that everyone understands and enjoys the benefits riding a bike brings.

“Not only are you using a more sustainable transport choice and preventing congestion, but you are improving your health and wellbeing at the same time.”

The cycling strategy hopes to relieve areas of congestion on the roads and encourage a healthy lifestyle.

It will bring together cycling projects from around the country and support funding bids to national organisations and central Government.

Transport councillor Eddie Johnson said: “We are investing in cycling through a number of avenues to get people on their bikes.

“Cycling is a cheap and easy way to get from A to B whilst enjoying some of the beautiful scenery Essex has to offer.

“This long-term strategy will help focus our efforts for years to come to improve infrastructure for riders across the county.”