A SECURITY boss is encouraging employees to sign up to a new cycling scheme to help cut down on congestion in Crewe.

Ken Lawton, owner of Alpha Omega Securities, has launched a Ride to Work scheme offering his staff a new bike to travel to head office on Lawton Street and their work destinations across South Cheshire.

The company, which employs 250 people, provides door supervisors at pubs and clubs across the north west and security guards at major outdoor events such as the Royal Cheshire County Show and Nantwich Show.

Mr Lawton, a former kickboxer who founded the company 20 years ago, said: “I believe in keeping fit and the discipline of a good exercise regime which supports physical and mental well-being.

“Riding a bike is great for all that and helps cut down on congestion too.

“I like to think we are doing our bit for the environment and hope other local companies will follow suit.”

Employees are given an opportunity to buy a cycle of their choice and pay back the cost through their salary.

The scheme is helping them bypass queues at peak times on Nantwich Road and Edleston Road and the hassle of clocking on late.

Andy Taylor, Alpha Omega operations director, said: “The Government operates a bike scheme but this is a simple way of getting employees on their bikes with the minimum fuss.

“A decent bike doesn’t come cheap and this way they can buy their new wheels and accessories without making a big dent in their pay packets.”