COMMUTERS who travel by bike are on track to benefit from extra cycle spaces in a bid to make their train journeys easier.

Thousands of rail commuters in the East of England will be able to make cycling a seamless part of their journeys thanks to a £6.8 million Government investment.

Cycling and Walking Minister Michael Ellis has announced 2,300 extra cycle spaces will be built at 48 stations across England - enabling commuters to cycle directly to the station and lock up their bike securely.

As part of the scheme, the Department for Transport will give £180,000 to Manningtree.

Mr Ellis, said: “Cycling to your nearest station and catching a train to work is a great way to keep healthy, reduce emissions and help make our towns and cities vibrant places to live.

The news follows Greater Anglia’s warning in February about its cycle policy.

Rather than cyclists taking their bikes on to trains, they must book ahead to reserve a space for their bike.

Only six bikes can be carried on each intercity train, and no full-size bikes are allowed on trains into London during morning peak times. Only folding bikes are allowed.