Sheep-power is set to revolutionise transport - and a huge investment is planned in North Yorkshire.

The prototype of a bicycle that is pedal-assisted, powered by a fuel made from specially-synthesised sheep droppings, is about to be marketed, and is high on the agenda of an inward investment meeting organised by Langleys solicitors, York, tonight.

The contraption, which looks like an ordinary bicycle but is packed with filament-thin synthesising tubes, was brought to York by its inventor, Welshman Eros Elddas.

Keen to launch his product in the cycling city, Mr Elddas sought advice from Richard Green, curator of York Art Gallery, and a well-known cyclist in York.

"At first I didn't believe it," said Mr Green. "But the ride was amazingly smooth and effortless. It is not exactly pong-less, but remember this was a prototype."

Paul Murphy, chief executive of York's Inward Investment Board, said: "This is an astonishing development which will give York a first like no other."

Mr Elddas said: "I wanted to name it a Lamb-retta, but the Italians got there first!"

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