Attention all cyclists!

Blur bass player, journalist, broadcaster and organic farmer Alex James will launch the publication of a series of Cotswold cycle routes in April.

The packs were developed by Gloucestershire Rural Community Council (GRCC) to promote local businesses and the benefits of cycling as a form of sustainable transport.

Cycle enthusiasts from across the district are invited to join Alex on 5 April at 11.30am in the King’s Head pub in Bledington. Alex is keen to promote this project because having moved to the area three years ago he understands the importance of supporting local businesses.

The packs include five circular cycle routes which start and finish from the following towns and villages; Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water, Kemble, Kingham and Moreton-in-Marsh. The start of each route is accessible by public transport and will take cyclists past several businesses including farm shops, post offices, cafes, restaurants, pubs and cycle hire shops.

Melanie Tarrant, a rural adviser for GRCC, came up with the concept for the packs after speaking to rural shop and pub owners who expressed concern about the lack of passing trade. Melanie, a keen cyclist, saw an opportunity to promote these businesses, while also encouraging both visitors and locals to ditch their cars and explore the Cotswolds by bike. "Many of the businesses featured on the routes are off the beaten track", said Melanie, "We hope that these packs will inspire visitors and residents to discover new pubs, shops and tourist attractions and rediscover the pleasure of cycling in such a beautiful area."

Packs will be available on the day and can also be obtained from visitor information centres, businesses on the routes, tourist attractions and train stations.