Heather Lea Hotel 34 Empress Drive, North Shore., Blackpool FY2 9SD BLACKPOOL BIKE HIRE Attraction: BLACKPOOL BIKE HIRE BLACKPOOL BIKE HIRE Blackpool has the countrys first large scale cycle hire scheme in a move aimed at transforming the resorts reputation. The move, jointly funded by Cycling England, Blackpool NHS and the local council to the tune of 1 million GBP over three years, will cement the towns reputation as a cycling destination. The bike hire plan is modelled on the popular Parisian scheme and will involve a number of bike stands located around Blackpools promenade and pleasure beach, and in local parks to encourage cyclists to make use of the surrounding nature reserves and countryside. The number of bikes will increase to 500 by May 2010, located at 100 bike hubs across Blackpool, making it the largest scheme in the country. Cyclists can access the bikes either by buying a day ticket for 8 GBP, which gives riders unlimited access to any of the bikes at any location, or by using a top up card which allows users to hire a bike for 1 GBP per hour with the first 30 minutes free. Bikes are available to hire from automated stations 24hrs a day, 7 days a week, in 3 easy steps! 1. Call 01253 320 094