BIKES TO GO IN THE BAG ON SOUTHEASTERN

SOUTHEASTERN trains have lifted their ban on the bikes this weekend, providing they are placed in bags.

A few weeks ago, scared witless at the thought of their trains being swamped by bikes during this coming weekend?s Tour de France start from London, Southeastern announced a total ban on all but folding bikes.

But thanks to the CTC, the national cyclists organisation, a compromise has been reached.

Cyclists travelling from London Bridge station to Canterbury for the stage one finish will be able to buy a heavy duty plastic bag for £2.50.

CTC public transport campaigner Dave Holladay said: ?The arrangements negotiated with Southeastern represent a success for CTC in working with a train operator who was prepared to talk about solutions

?The ban as it stood presented a huge barrier to cyclists keen to take up the special rail travel deal and avoid adding more car trips to the many heading for Kent to see stage one flying down the Medway and over the North Downs, and it ran completely counter to the spirit of The Tour. ?