More than half a million journeys have been made on a bike and e-bike share scheme in Watford.

The scheme by Beryl and Watford Borough Council, which launched in March 2020, has seen people travel more than 1,340,000 km on the bikes.

The journeys have generated more than 190,000 hours of physical activity and saved more than 51 tonnes of carbon emissions.

The Beryl Annual Rider Report 2023 showed that the scheme has had a positive impact on rider behaviour in Watford, with 62 per cent of riders cycling more often since joining Beryl, 33 per cent reducing their use of cars, and 38 per cent reducing their use of taxis.

The report also showed that 49 per cent of riders in Watford have used a Beryl vehicle to replace a car, van, motorcycle, or taxi journey, either as a driver or a passenger.

(Image: Watford Borough Council)

Phil Ellis, chief executive officer and co-founder of Beryl, said: "Reaching this milestone is excellent news and reaffirms just how successful shared sustainable transport has been in Watford over the past four years.

"We know, from speaking to them directly, that our riders in Watford really value the convenience and speed of bike share when compared to other forms of transport."

Watford mayor Peter Taylor said: "I’m thrilled that so many residents are using Beryl Bikes, proving that sustainable travel is being embraced in Watford.

"This success reinforces our commitment to providing green transport options that benefit both the community and environment.

(Image: Watford Borough Council)

"Watford was the first district council in the country to provide a bike share scheme and it is good to see how well used the bikes have been.

"As we move forward, Beryl Bikes will remain central to our efforts to create a cleaner, less congested Watford for everyone.”

Earlier this year, the council announced its decision to extend its contract with Beryl to provide the borough’s bike and e-bike share services until 2026.