What women think about...cycling

The question of why half as many British women as men cycle – the lowest number of young women cycling anywhere in Europe – is examined in a new film documentary, Beauty and the Bike.

The Darlington council-sponsored film compares the cycling habits and attitudes of young women in Germany and north-east England. Darlington is one of six Cycling Demonstration Towns across England.

A spokesperson for the Environmental Transport Association (ETA) said: “Many of the reasons that young British women cycle less often appear to be cultural and this film does a good job of highlighting the issue.”

The bilingual film is to be shown across Europe from this month to encourage girls of all ages to take to two wheels.

Do I need cycle insurance?

Cycling is not an extreme sport. It can be enjoyed by both young and old and there is no need for any equipment other than the comfortable outdoor clothing you probably already own. However, bikes are vulnerable to theft and in the case of an accident you may need to seek compensation or even deal with a claim by someone else. Cycle insurance from the ETA is fully comprehensive. It includes new-for-old replacement, cover for accidental damage, third party insurance, personal accident cover and if you breakdown, we will even come out and recover you and your bike.