THE Government's cycling tsar has hailed York as a model for other cities to follow.

Steven Norris, chairman of the National Cycling Strategy Board, said he was impressed with the steps York had taken to highlight the bike as an alternative form of transport.

In a visit hosted by City of York Council, Mr Norris visited the Millennium Bridge, watched cyclists train at Knavesmire Primary School and met cycling paramedic Mark Inman.

Mr Norris said: "York is a role model. You notice it the moment you arrive. It is a beautiful city and so easy to cycle in.

"This is not just a cover, you see a completely different sort of cyclist in York.

"Looking at some of the schemes in the city, you can see the level of cycle use."

Mr Norris deflected criticism that he did not wear a cycle helmet during his biking excursion in the city.

He added: "For a young child it is a very important precaution. But I don't personally use one.

"We need to make sure other road users respect cyclists, rather than treating them as if it is their duty to get out of the way of the car."

Dave Merrett, acting council leader, said: "We are very pleased that Mr Norris has travelled to York.

"We have put in ten years of hard work to advance cycling and facilities for cyclists. There is still a long way to go.

"But this visit is a tribute to the work that is being done by the council and its officers."

Mr Norris also reassured York Jarvis workers that the company was working towards the future despite speculation that it is to blame for the Potters Bar rail crash.

Mr Norris, a non-executive director of Jarvis, said: "For those who were injured, our own staff and the very small group of well-qualified staff who have come under the spotlight, we are doing everything we can to assist them.

Updated: 08:56 Wednesday, May 29, 2002