A FREE transport service, primarily aimed at cyclists, is set to launch this month to convey people between Alloa and the Forth bridges for day trips.

The Inner Forth Bike Bus will launch on Sunday, April 21, as a pilot service by the Climate FORTH project, which aims to make the area a more climate-resilient place to love, work and travel.

The bus, primarily for cyclists but with walkers also welcome, will run every Sunday until October 27 this year.

It will be free for all passengers with the route operated by PVT Transfer, who know the landscape well.

Various drop-off and pick-up points along the way will include the Kelpies Hub, Dunfermline station car park and Bo'ness bus station.

With space for regular bikes, trikes, and other non-standard cycles too, the Bike Bus can accommodate up to 14 cycles, depending on size and type.

With many of the stops positioned within proximity to the newly launched Round the Inner Forth cycle route there is a multitude of route options for cyclists and walkers using the service.

James Stead, project manager for Climate FORTH, said: “We are so excited to see the launch of Climate FORTH’s Inner Forth Bike Bus free service this April. 

“This will allow cyclists and walkers access to some of the remarkable, lesser-known heritage sites and hidden gems that the Inner Forth has to offer, while providing opportunities for local people and visitors alike to plan some fantastic Sunday trips around the area. 

“A huge thanks to The National Lottery Heritage Fund and Lottery players along with the Crown Estate via Fife Council for helping to make this seasonal service one for all to enjoy.”

The route has been developed in a bid to encourage residents and visitors to make greener decisions when traveling and exploring, as opposed to using the car by default.

Stops have been selected to be as convenient as possible, within walking distance of villages, towns and – where possible – close to existing public transport links.

It is also hoped the service will enable passengers with different fitness abilities to join up their journeys and explore many lesser-known built an natural heritage sites along the route.

Booking is not essential, but it is strongly recommended.

Passengers can book by emailing PVT Transfer at least 24 hours beforehand via info@pvttransfer.com with their details including numbers of people and bikes as well as pick-up and drop-off points.

Timetables and stops are available via innerforthlandscape.co.uk.

Tom Buchanan, of PVT Transfer, added: “PVT Transport are delighted to partner with the Climate FORTH project to offer free transport  to all cyclists and walkers with the Inner Forth Bike Bus.

“We are excited to welcome passengers on board from April to October and to facilitate exploration of the Inner Forth area in a more climate responsible way.”