A new e-bike hire scheme has been welcomed by MP Tim Farron at Grange-over-Sands Station.

This latest initiative is being trialled by Morecambe Bay Partnership, a local charity known for its free Tramper hire service, now setting up an active travel hub at the station's Old Waiting Room.

Local MP for Westmorland and Lonsdale, Tim Farron, recently met with the charity at the station to discuss this innovative project.

As part of the plan, the charity has inked a deal with Northern Trains to lease the Old Waiting Room on platform 2 until the end of March 2025.

Envisaged as an active travel hub, the centre is poised to offer mobility scooter and e-bike rentals enhancing the charity's current services and community projects.

Richard Frank, the charity's Access and Infrastructure Team Leader, championed the venture as a feasible opportunity to promote healthy activities like walking and cycling.

He said: "The lease is an ideal opportunity to encourage walking and cycling for both health and leisure.

"The hub is accessible by bus and train and will provide options for car-free itineraries for everyone, locals and visitors alike– no matter their level of fitness or experience."

The upcoming hub, besides its scooter and e-bike hire services, will be home to the third hire point of the Morecambe Bay Electric Bike Network.

Plans also include curated itineraries for half and full day bike rides and an activity roster packed with guided rides and walks.

MP Farron has expressed his support for the endeavour, particularly highlighting the potential benefits to the community.

He said: "The Active Travel Hub gives rail users and non-rail users alike the chance to explore the peninsula by bike or mobility scooter.

"It will bring more life and activity to Grange Station and is a brilliant use of the space allowing even more people to enjoy the beauty of the Bay."

Moreover, the team is also reaching out to the local community for volunteers to assist at the hub and interactions are underway.

Those interested in volunteering should visit the hub on platform 2 of Grange Station on either Tuesday, October 24, between 2 - 4pm, or Thursday, October 26, between 10.30am - 12.30pm.

Part of a wider initiative, Ways Around The Bay, funded by the Department for Levelling Up through West stunning landscapes, wildlife, history and culture.