A HAYES woman has been presented with a free bike after entering a competition run by Newsquest and Transport for London (TfL) to encourage cycling.

Readers of the Hillingdon Times entered the competition in the run-up to the Tour de France.

Janice Fisher, 47, of Carylon Road, said she couldn't believe she won.

She said: "When I got the call I really wasn't expecting to be told I was a winner. I was just so surprised, but it was really good news.

"My son had an accident in his a while back, so the bike will come in useful. When he and my husband stop fighting over it, one of them will be able to enjoy using it."

Along with the bikes, bike computers, which monitor how many miles cyclists travel, were also up for grabs.

Cycling is a healthier, and often quicker alternative to using the car, and by running the competition, TfL was hoping to get people to try it as a way to get around London.

Victoria Harrison-Cook, a TfL spokesman, said: "Cycling is very fashionable at the moment with the number of cycle journeys up by 83 per cent in seven years, and investment in cycling up to £36m in 2007 to 2008.

"By 2025, Mayor of London Ken Livingstone wants the number of people cycling up by 400 per cent compared to the year 2000."

TfL have also launched a new cycle map, which shows all the local routes on back roads and can be used to avoid heavy traffic.

To get a free cycle guide call 0207 222 1234.