CYCLISTS could soon be able to ride from Highworth to Swindon without going near a busy road.

Highworth Town Council is backing calls for a cycle route along the disused railway line.

A letter of support has been sent to Swindon Council.

And the authority's lead member for transport, Coun Jemima Milton, is being invited to discuss the scheme, which has been proposed by local cyclists.

Keen biker Doug Staff wrote to the council saying the A361 and B4019 are not safe for cyclists.

"Cycling with others is a great social and physical experience," he said.

"Being able to travel through beautiful countryside, appreciating our natural environment while sharing this experience with others what better way of spending a few hours?"

He is urging other cyclists to write to Swindon Council asking for more routes to be included in the new transport plan.

Several cycle routes have been created in Swindon and there are plans for a route linking Swindon, Cricklade and Cirencester.