By VIVIENNE NICOLL

THOUSANDS of people in Glasgow have taken up cycling in recent years cutting poisonous CO2 gas equivalent to almost 78,500 car journeys.

British Cycling and Sky joined forces in 2009 to increase the numbers taking part in elite sport and to inspire younger people to cycle more regularly.

New findings show that has resulted in savings in health care costs due to inactivity of more than £1.5million and a £843,000 boost to the local economy by converting non-cyclists to regular cyclists.

A number of schemes were set up including offering people of all ages and abilities the chance to cycle, free guided local rides by trained ride leaders and bike rides for women.

Glasgow Life chairman Archie Graham said: "Thanks to the partnership with British Cycling and Sky we can say with pride that we have achieved something unique which has made a lasting difference, both for the economy and the health and wellbeing of people across Glasgow.

"We are hugely supportive of cycling and will continue to work with British Cycling to provide a number of opportunities for Glasgow in 2016 and beyond and are committed to getting more people on their bikes than ever before."

Peter Riddell, British Cycling recreation manager for Glasgow, said recreational cycling had created a dramatic increase in popularity and participation at all levels.

He added: "This summer is going to be huge for cycling, both on an elite and recreational level and there are still plenty of opportunities for people to get out on their bikes and enjoy the city on two wheels.

"All rides are led by trained British Cycling ride leaders and we have more than 2300 in the UK whose expert local knowledge and dedication are a key element of our success."

Free Sky Ride Local events are led by a guide along carefully planned routes and are suitable for people looking to get fit, to spend time with the family, to discover new routes or to enjoy the outdoors.

The 38 guided rides which are taking place in the Glasgow area over the next three months are suitable or all ages and abilities. Register for free at GoSkyRide.com.

Meanwhile, Mark Cavendish has been confirmed as one of the top riders taking part in this year's Tour of Britain, which leaves Glasgow on September 4.

The record Tour de France stage winner will be leading the way, alongside fellow top sprinter André Greipel and former UCI World Hour Record holder Rohan Dennis.

Cavendish, who has 30 stage victories in the Tour de France, won his first Olympic medal on Tuesday evening, taking Silver in the Omnium track event. The Tour of Britain will be his first race post-Olympics.