Tourism body Visit York has launched a Digi Bike, a four-wheeled bicycle with built-in tellies showcasing the city’s best bits.
The Digi Bike boasts two state-of-the-art smart TVs and onboard sound system running video and graphic advertising. It also comes with its own leaflet rack.
Throughout the year, the bike will travel around the city centre stopping at key tourism hotspots such as York Minster, St Helen’s Square, Parliament Street, National Railway Museum, Parliament Street and Union Terrace coach park.
The Digi Bike will start off at 9am at Union Terrace and run seven days per week till 5pm (Mon-Sat) and 10am to 4pm on Sundays throughout the summer
Three new riders will also distribute leaflets, provide directions and expert local knowledge to visitors and residents alike.
Starting today, Monday, July 28, the Digi Bike will run seven days a week for the summer.
“The Digi Bike is a high visibility way to promote York’s tourism businesses and at the same time offer help and advice for visitors and residents,” said head of Visit York Kate McMullen.
“And by meeting and greeting coach passengers first thing in the morning, we’re adding to the friendly warm welcome York is so famous for.”
In future, the roll-out of city centre wifi may allow the screens to display online content such as maps, website and Twitter feeds to give real-time information.
Meet the Digi Cyclists
Conor Matchett, 19, from Heworth, York is studying Philosophy at University of Edinburgh.
Conor said: “It’s brilliant to be out and about on the streets, chatting to visitors and giving them information about the city I love.”
Peter Sainsbury is 28 and studying for a degree in countryside management at Askham Bryan College.
“I’m a really keen cyclist and I was one of the tourmakers for the Grand Depart,” he said. “When I saw this position advertised I knew it was a perfect way for me to spend the summer.”
Michael Thompson, 19, from Wetherby, is studying for a degree in French and German at York University. He also works for Scoot cycling doing guided tours was another tourmaker.
Michael said: “I hope my language will give me the chance to help our European visitors over the summer.”