Most people think more space should be given to cyclists on roads even when it means less room for other traffic, according to a survey.

Cycling and walking campaigners Sustrans say four out of five people want more protected bike routes on roads to make it safer for cyclists.

Its report, Bike Life, reveals that out of 7,700 people surveyed, two-thirds said more cycling would make their city a better place to live and work.

The survey questioned people in Belfast, Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Greater Manchester and Newcastle.

Only six per cent said they usually travel to and from work by bicycle and three-quarters would support more investment in cycling.

Sustrans CEO Xavier Brice said: 'From Mexico City to Manchester, mayors around the world are waking up to the fact that their cities need to be designed around people, not motor vehicles and that investing in cycling is key to keeping their city moving, and improving health and economic vitality.'

Chris Boardman, British Cycling Policy adviser and now Greater Manchester's first cycling and walking commissioner, said: 'Evidence has shown us time and again that the world’s happiest and healthiest cities all have high cycling rates in common.

'It’s no coincidence, cycling really is the silver bullet.'