Almost half a million kilometres have been travelled on the city's hire bikes since the scheme was launched last year.

Beryl BTN Bikes were introduced in Brighton on March 31, 2023, and  people have completed more than 146,000 journeys on them since then.

Brighton and Hove City Council said this has replaced nearly 34,000 private vehicle journeys and saved nearly five tonnes of carbon emissions.

Over the last year, the bikes have attracted around 40,000 riders.

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Councillor Trevor Muten, chairman of the transport and sustainability committee, said: "It’s been a really positive first year for Beryl BTN Bikes and we’re now heading into spring and summer with more bikes and hubs than ever before.

“Half a million kilometres is a fantastic milestone and I’m sure we’ll smash the million mark by this time next year. 

“I’m very pleased to see Beryl offer a new 100-minute bundle. It’s a great deal for users and means a ten-minute e-bike ride could cost just £1.50. The student discount is also very good news for our university population. 

“Beryl BTN Bikes are a great way for people to travel around the city actively and sustainably and strongly support our efforts to improve air quality and reach our net zero ambitions.”

When the scheme first started in Brighton, there were 75 e-bikes operating from 19 hubs.

There are now more than 100 hubs across the city.

Beryl chief executive and co-founder Phil Ellis said: “It’s true that, by bringing a well-planned, easy-to-use and cost-effective bike share scheme to a large urban area, you break down the barriers to cycling for a lot of people. 

“I think the numbers show that our BTN Bikes have achieved that in their first year and, by doing so, have had a positive impact on alleviating traffic congestion, reducing carbon emissions and improving public health. 

“I’m looking forward to working alongside our scheme partners Brighton and Hove City Council to build on the scheme’s successful start and encourage even more people to make more sustainable transport choices.”