Devon County Council’s Cycle scheme has been announced as a finalist for the Eurostar Ashden Award for Sustainable Travel. 

The Ashden Awards bring to light ground-breaking green energy champions in the UK and developing world and inspire others to follow. Since 2001 they’ve helped more than 130 sustainable energy pioneers develop their work. Today the Awards are an internationally recognised yardstick for excellence in the field of green energy.

Cycle has been shortlisted in recognition of creating a cycling culture from scratch. “Devon County Council’s tireless efforts to create a cycling culture in from scratch have laid the groundwork for it to become a true cycling city. As well as building nearly 50km of new and improved cycle lanes since 2005, the council has had particular success in inspiring youngsters to get on their bikes. Cycling’s overall mode share is now three times the national average and with a stunning cycling trail connecting to communities along the river Exe near completion, cycling to work is becoming the obvious choice.”

The finalists will compete for more than £190,000 in prize money, with the winners to be announced at a ceremony in London on 30 May 2012. Good luck guys!