BRIGHTON’S popular bike sharing scheme has scooped a top award.

Public relations and communications consultancy Fugu, based in North Street, has been awarded a special Mark of Excellence at The Chartered Institute of Public Relations Excellence Awards.

The consultancy was shortlisted alongside five agencies in the transport or automotive campaign category after being recognised for its work with Brighton’s bike sharing scheme - BTN BikeShare.

Fugu created a community-focused campaign which placed the scheme firmly in the city’s conscience and resulted in it becoming the UK’s most successful bike share scheme outside of London.

Vicki Hughes, managing director at Fugu PR said: “This national award recognition is a Fugu first and I’m extremely proud of the team for getting us here and to be shortlisted alongside some of the biggest agencies in the UK.

“BTN BikeShare is a fantastic scheme that has had such a positive impact on the city and we’re delighted to have contributed to its success.

“Fugu’s strategy and implementation has firmly established BTN BikeShare into the hearts of the Brighton and Hove community and now it’s one of the most successful bike schemes in the UK!

“I’m delighted to see Fugu officially recognised as an excellent consultancy, it’s truly deserved.”

The Argus reported last September that the bike share scheme has been one of the company’s most successful projects, according to its boss. The figures were met with joy from organiser Tim Caswell.