Worcestershire County Council's 'Choose how you move in Redditch' programme is encouraging women to take part in a survey which will help influence policy and decision-making of a planned cycling strategy in the county.

The survey, which is in line with a national campaign currently being run by British Cycling, hopes to contribute to their organisation's aim to get one million more women and girls on their bikes by 2020.

Over the past four years, there has been a rise in the number of women cycling though statistics suggest that there are still three times more men than women riding bicycles. There are a number of additional barriers to cycling which challenge women specifically, and therefore a desire to redress the balance and inspire more women to cycle more.

Other studies show that as women increase the amount of time spent riding for leisure or fitness, they are more likely to cycle to work, which is a key aim of 'Choose how you move'.

Andy Baker, Transport Planning and Commissioning Manager at the county councill, says: "The number of women cyclists is woefully low, compared to their male counterparts. Whilst we have seen some interest through the 'Choose how you move' programme, with bike loans to businesses and hire through venues such as Arrow Valley Park and local cycling clubs, we're keen to develop this even further.

"As a form of active and sustainable travel for the county as a whole, we're strongly committed to the promotion of cycling."

With the runaway success of the Redditch Tour Series in June 2013 and other sporting events nationally, cycling has been enjoying a high profile nationwide.

There's been a rise in number of Choose loan bikes to businesses, including several women cyclists; bikes available for hire in Arrow Valley Park and an increase in membership of local club Redditch Road and Path Cycle Club.

As many female cyclists as possible are encouraged to complete the survey. Visit: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/Callingwomencyclists Spot prizes will be randomly awarded to selected survey responses.