Already regarded as one of Scotland’s top mountain biking locations, the project will focus on promoting leisure cycling in the region – from way-marked distance routes to a series of newly-developed signed town trails.

Backed by Scottish Enterprise on behalf of the Scottish Borders Recreational Cycling Group, the initiative has just been awarded match funding through the Scottish Borders Leader programme.

This will allow the recruitment of a cycling development officer who will work with local businesses to maximise the recreational cycling potential of the region – bringing economic benefit and encouraging use of the area’s cycling facilities by both visitors and local people.

As part of the project, a new website, www.CycleScottishBorders.co.uk has been developed. Linked to the Visit Scotland Borders site, it showcases all forms of cycling opportunities within the region and features downloadable maps of the main routes.

The site will be further enhanced over the coming months as part of a marketing and public relations drive to showcase the Borders to cyclists as a potential holiday and day-trip destination.

Nicola Watt, of Scottish Enterprise, said cycling tourism was worth an annual £219million to the Scottish economy and people want to see the Borders gain a greater share of this market.

“This is especially relevant this year with more people than ever expected to opt for a UK break rather than go overseas,” she told TheSouthern.

“We are fortunate that our region already has some stunning long cycle trails, including the Tweed Cycle Route and Borderloop.

“Scottish Borders Council has also recently developed dozens of short cycle trails that start and end in popular tourist towns such as Melrose, Kelso and Jedburgh.

“Most are circular, making them ideal for anyone looking to enjoy some stunning scenery and exercise.