THE NEW leader of Redbridge Council has promised to get on his bike in a bid to keep fit and ease traffic congestion in the borough.

Cllr Keith Prince braved a miserable Monday morning this week with Cycle Training UK expert Chris Elliott to improve his cycle skills as part of the council’s ‘Movers and Shakers’ scheme.

The initiative, from the Redbridge branch of the London Cycling Campaign, is designed to encourage the familiar faces of Redbridge to act as role models by cycling to work and demonstrating that exercise is for all.

Redbridge GLA Representative Roger Evans is next to join the initiative, with Ilford North MP Lee Scott also keen to give his support to peddle power.

It is hoped that participants will cycle more and gain an insight into the role it can play in promoting physical and mental health, as well as discovering what barriers prevent more people from saddling up.

The campaign will culminate with a celebration cycle ride followed by lunch, on Saturday, June 6, at 12.30pm at Redbridge Cycling Centre.

Each participant has been provided with individual packages with all necessary training and professional support, including bikes.