A global organisation which aims to promote cycling has appointed Bournemouth’s first bicycle mayor.

Amsterdam-based BYCS has named Boscombe resident Derek Heritage to fill the position.

The bicycle mayor network aims to drive change, promote cycling and engage with the community.

Derek is a member of BH Active Travel, a volunteer leader for Christchurch’s Barrack Road Bike Bus and a Bikeability instructor.

The 65-year-old said he is keen to use his experience and official title to campaign for better infrastructure, with support from the BYCS alliance.

“I'm delighted to be appointed Bournemouth's first bicycle mayor,” Derek said.

“BCP clearly needs to reduce congestion and improve air quality, particularly near our schools and town centres.

“I'm determined to work with the council and their officials in a positive way, in order to obtain the best possible improvements and to offer feedback from the cycling community to the council.

“The bicycle mayor network has worked successfully with local authorities all over the world and is now spreading across the UK this can only be a positive initiative.

"My duties will involve collating the opinions of local cyclists and passing them on to the relevant authorities.“

Derek, who also works part-time as a taxi driver, is holding a ‘meet and cycle with the new bicycle mayor’ event this Sunday, August 13 at 10am.

He will be cycling along the new cycle paths in the Lower and Upper Gardens, followed by coffee at Pier Approach where anyone who wants to discuss any concerns they have about cycling in Bournemouth, can speak to him.

Everyone is welcome, including families as the ride is flat and suitable for young children, Derek said.

He added: “I'm looking forward to meeting local cyclists on Sunday to hear their thoughts on how we can improve our fantastic town, by making it easier to move about and turning the daily commute into a much more pleasant experience.”

Lucie Allen, chair of BH Active Travel, said the group was “delighted” that Bournemouth had a bicycle mayor.

She said BYCS described the role as “the human face and voice of cycling in a town/city”.

“Derek will be engaging with the public, the council, local businesses and schools to help accelerate the change required to get more people cycling, with a particular focus on cycling,” Lucie said.

“BH Active Travel would love to see bicycle mayors for both Poole and Christchurch, so if you feel you’ve got what it takes, have a look at the BYCS website and get in touch with BH Active Travel to discuss it.”