SOUTHAMPTON mayor Councillor John Slade and his chauffeur swapped his luxury Mercedes limousine for electric bikes as part of a campaign to boost green commuting in the city.

Cllr Slade, right, and John Hounsom used the machines to get to engagements across the city as part of the city council's Commuter Challenge an initiative which aims to encourage council employees to use alternative transport to the motor car.

Staff are being encouraged to try cycling, walking or taking public transport or even car sharing in a bid to cut down on pollution and congestion as well as encouraging a healthier lifestyle among staff.

Councillor Jill Baston, the city council's Cabinet member for environment and transport, said: "The Commuter Challenge is an excellent way to get staff to think about how they travel to work.

"By walking into work or getting the bus it will not only help the environment but could also help employees save money and get fitter."

Awards will be handed out to the departments and individuals who travel the most miles by means other than their cars.