Older people with mobility issues will soon be able to call on a free taxi service – that uses electric-assisted bikes.

Not-for-profit social enterprise Bikeworks, which is based in the Olympic Park Velodrome, is launching the Ride Side-by-Side service on Wednesday in Finsbury Park, near The Arts Building.

The pedal-powered taxi service is available to anyone over 60 who experiences mobility issues, social isolation or visual impairment. The 'pilot' will pick them up from their requested location and take them wherever they want to go in the borough.

Users can take any number of journeys within 90 minutes - they can do the weekly shop, visit a friend or go to the park, and can be helped to get on and off the bike and with any bags.

They can pedal along if they like or leave the cycling to the pilot, who will have had a DBS check and will be trained in cycling and cycling mechanics, as well as risk management and working with older people.

Project manager Richard Evans said: 'Ride Side-by-Side is a simple concept, enabling people who may struggle to get about.

'It enables people not only to make trips, but also to pedal and get exercise. In this era of climate emergency, inactivity and social isolation Ride Side by Side offers a fun solution to these and other current issues'

Bikeworks' aim is to change lives using the power of a bike by building a more diverse cycling community, improving mechanical skills and supporting businesses to be greener by promoting cycling.

The event will take place between 1pm and 4pm.