PEDAL power could persuade Metrolink bosses to finally allow passengers to bring their bikes on board.

And those pressing for the current cycle ban to be overturned say passenger numbers using the 10-year-old transport system could soar as a result.

Greater Manchester Cycling Campaign says Metrolink must fulfil its original promise to make the system "accessible to all".

The comments come amid a six-week consultation exercise being undertaken by Greater Manchester Passenger Transport Executive. They want the public's views on whether the cycle ban on the trams should be maintained or withdrawn.

The decision not to allow bikes on board was taken because of safety concerns and lack of capacity.

But a spokesman for the Greater Manchester Cycling Campaign said: "Experience from overseas operators show that cyclists and foot passengers can travel together with very few problems and with the new vehicles from San Francisco due to increase capacity, space could now be made available for cycle facilities."

The organisation says: "The benefits for Manchester's travellers could be enormous. The catchment area around stations could be increased nine-fold for those without a car, making the system accessible to large numbers of people who are currently denied access.

"Passengers who combine their journeys with unreliable buses and trains could switch to bicycles as a quicker, cheaper alternative and motorists could avoid the hassle of busy roads and parking problems, causing congestion around stations."

The Campaign spokesman continued: "When Metrolink was originally conceived, the GMPTA boasted it would make the system 'accessible to all'.

"After 10 years of waiting, it is now time to make good that promise and, in the process, create a tram system that is at least equal to any system in the world."