Electric bikes will be available for people to hire in the New Forest under a new scheme for people of varying abilities.

The Department of Transport has announced it will give funding for three "electrically assisted pedal cycles" to Pedall, the NPA's inclusive cycling organisation.

Pedall bid for the money under a pilot scheme aimed at encouraging people of all ages and abilities to get on their bikes.

The New Forest is the smallest scheme to win funding, with others in Exter, Bristol and the Isle of Wight receiving money for more than 20 bikes each.

The three bikes will be available for public hire from the New Forest Cyclexperience hub at Brockenhurst railway station.

Pedall says the bikes will also be transported to events in Southampton, Bournemouth and Salisbury to broaden the project's reach.

Transport Minister Andrew Jones said: “Electric bikes are a great way to encourage new people to get into cycling and today’s announcement will provide an opportunity for thousands more to enjoy the advantages they offer.

“Cycling helps cut congestion and is a healthy, affordable transport option.

“We want to double the number of journeys made by bicycle. That is why we are also investing over the next five years in cycle training and infrastructure.”

The New Forest scheme will explore the potential take up of cycling for a wider group of less able people attending an all ability cycle training programme with 3 adapted e-bikes.

The e-bikes used are Electric Assisted Pedal Cycles – bikes which use small electric motors to boost the riders’ pedal power and help them ride.

The electric motors will not work unless the rider is pedalling, and help riders ride further without getting tired – and without worrying about running out of energy, ride up hills easily and carry heavier loads.

The motors on e- bikes are powered by batteries and have a range of up to 60 miles before needing a recharge.