TV cyclist backs 'Saddle Up' campaign

Beaumont, who also cycled around the world in an earlier gruelling challenge, took time off from a lecture tour of Britain to help promote the Saddle Up for Summer scheme.

Workers at Visit Peak District and Derbyshire, the area's official tourist board, have come up with the idea as a way of highlighting the hundreds of cycle routes available to visitors.

Rides on the traffic-free High Peak Trail and more tough mountain biking lessons are among a variety of things on offer during the event, which is being run throughout the next month.

Beaumont, who clocked up more than 18,000 miles on his round-the-world tour, said: "I'm delighted to give my support to Saddle Up for Summer, to get as many people as possible on their bikes in the Peak District and Derbyshire.

"While British cyclists continue to lead the sport in many fields, it's campaigns like this that help people get started, get outdoors and become healthier."

Tourist board deputy chief executive, David Thornton, said there were miles of quiet cycle trails which have been set up to allow visitors to explore the superb scenery throughout the Peak District.

He added: "How many of us have bikes gathering dust in the garage because we only ride them maybe once or twice a year? It's a great opportunityto give them a quick maintenance check and get out in the fresh air to rediscover the pleasures of pedalling your way to fitness.

"It's an ideal outdoor activity to enjoy during a short break here, and we're hoping that once people have tried it, they'll want to carry on when they return home, making it part of their everyday routine – whether they cycle to work and back or get on their bike to unwind at weekends."

Visit Peak District and Derbyshire is also supporting the Peak District NationalPark Authority's new 2.2m initiative, Pedal Peak District, which is funded by Cycling England.

Details of all the events being organised for the Saddle Up for Summer can be found on a website at www.visitpeakdistrict.com