Ref. 30911-07HUNDREDS of Swindon workers are biking to work this week.

Making the most of the good weather, staff at Nationwide and Zurich were among those who took to two wheels rather than four for National Bike Week.

Yesterday, a group from Nationwide cycled 10 miles from Avebury to the headquarters in Pipers Way, led by retail operations director Jim Willens.

Mr Willens said: "Bike Week is the ideal opportunity for us all to cycle to work at least once during the week.

"Cycling is cheaper than driving, is environmentally friendly and is also the healthy option.

"It provides a great chance for those of us who are interested in sustainable transport to encourage more people to cycle more often."

Nationwide also laid on events including lunchtime cycle rides, an exhibition of old bikes and cycle information stands.

Meanwhile over at Zurich, cyclists who cycle to work today will be given a free fluorescent cycling jacket or water bottle, while there was a free mountain bike up for grabs in an intranet competition.

Zurich IT worker Martin Corrigan has cycled to work for more than 20 years from his Eldene home.

He said: "I cycle to work because it's fun. The bus can be quicker if the timings are right, but I know door to door to work is 20 minutes on my bike, and I enjoy the space and freedom that a bike ride gives me."