Plans for a new bike share scheme in Worcester moved a step closer after an operator was appointed.

Worcester City Council confirmed Beryl has been awarded a contract which will see 225 bicycles, 175 of them electric, available to hire across the city.

The scheme will provide more than 50 bays and several hire options for residents in Worcester.

The £700,000 project has been funded by part of a £4.5m grant from the government's Active Travel Fund.

Since the first Beryl bike share scheme was set-up in 2019, the project has been launched in several cities including Birmingham and Hereford.

Councillor Stephen Hodgson said the new scheme would provide residents with a "convenient and easy" option for journeys, and would help to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality.

Beryl chief executive and co-founder Phil Ellis said the firm was "delighted" to be working with the local authority on the project.

"As well as being fun, easy to use, flexible and convenient, our vehicles provide a sustainable option that can also help get people active," he said.

"They're particularly useful for first and last mile journeys and a great way to connect with other urban transport systems or commute to and from work."

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-hereford-worcester-67311189