Scotland launched its first cycle hire scheme this week in the town of Dumfries.

BIKE2Go has been launched alongside a new Cycling Scotland interest free loan scheme which will assist private sector businesses across Scotland with the cost of installing workplace cycling facilities, such as bike shelters.

The £155,000 cycle hire provides bicycles free of charge to subscribers from nine locations across Dumfries to boost cycling numbers and help reduce emissions.

Speaking at the launch, Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson said: ‘I’m delighted to be launching both of these initiatives to encourage people to get out of their cars and onto their bicycles. Scotland has established world-leading targets to cut greenhouse gas emissions and providing more sustainable transport alternatives will help us meet those targets.’