GROUPS and societies are being invited to apply for a grant of up to £5,000 to help boost cycling in their area.

Transport for London is offering 25 cash grants to groups from anywhere in the capital as part of the Community Cycling Fund for London.

Money can be used to help fund local rides, events, bike maintenance or other small projects to encourage people to take up the activity.

Mayor of London Boris Johnson said: “This is all about helping the smaller cycling groups within London to pass on their enthusiasm for cycling to local people.

“There is an army of potential cyclists within the boundaries of our great capital and the smaller community groups this funding is meant for have the local know how that will help them encourage other Londoners to take to two wheels.”

Matt Mallinder, deputy chief executive of the London Cycling Campaign, gave his backing to the initiative, adding: “These grants are an excellent catalyst to get more people on bikes, which in turn opens up communities and provides health benefits and employment opportunities.”

Groups have until June 3 to make an application and can log on to www.lcc.org.uk/community for more information.