Bikes named after inspirational cyclists for International Women's Day

To celebrate International Women's Day, Transport for London (TfL) and Santander Cycles have unveiled 10 hire bikes named after inspirational female cyclists.

More than 150 public nominations were submitted from Londoners for their female cycling heroes.

Many of the nominees are women who have paved the way for others, such as grassroots leaders and advocates for safer cycling infrastructure.

Samra Said, who received the most nominations, said: "This recognition reflects the joy of cycling and the community spirit of every woman who has been part of our journey."

Said, ride leader of Cycle Sisters, said she was "incredibly honoured" to have received the most nominations.

Under her leadership, she has grown the network to more than 2,200 riders.

She added: "Together we are creating accessible and empowering spaces for Muslim and ethnically diverse women to cycle and become more healthy."

London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan and TfL said they recognised that a "significant gender gap remains", adding they are committed to removing barriers, including concerns around safety, cost and access.

Of the 10 women selected by a panel from City Hall, TfL and Santander, nine are described as modern unsung heroes and one as a historical pioneer.

Founder of Northwest Pedal Express in Brent, Annahita Benbow, was recognised for leading weekly bike buses that help children travel to school with confidence and safety.

Carol Summers, a London Ambulance Service paramedic of more than 20 years has been honoured for inspiring her colleagues to cycle and respond to 999 calls by bike.

Other women celebrated are ultracyclist, courier and author Emily Chappell, Sikh cycling club leader Harjit Kaur Lakhan, Camden cycling campaigner Jean Dollimore, and Dr Jenny Drife, a consultant psychiatrist who cycles daily across Lambeth and Southwark to reach rough sleepers in parks.

Naomi Rumble, director of Together We Ride, and Terry Clarke, a cycling leader for U3A, complete the list.

The 10th bike has been named after Tessie Reynolds, who in 1893 set a record for cycling from Brighton to London and back in 8 hours and 30 minutes at a time when women were not recognised as cyclists.

Helen Cansick, one of the judges, said: "We hope celebrating these women on Santander Cycles will encourage even more women and girls to experience the joy of cycling."

National cycling data shows men make nearly three times as many trips each year as women.

TfL's Cycling Action Plan and Equity in Motion inclusion strategies set out ways to make cycling safer and more accessible.

Investment is being made into community projects that will help women to cycle, especially those that support ethnically diverse communities, socially isolated women and women in the criminal justice system.

Other investment includes new cycleways and safer junctions.

Cycling in London has risen by 43% since 2019 with an estimated 1.5 million journeys made each day.

Sonya Byers, CEO of Women in Transport, congratulated the women recognised and said: "I'm delighted to see Transport for London and Santander celebrating 10 incredible women whose leadership, passion and perseverance are transforming cycling for so many across our city.

"Their stories shine a light on the power of representation and the importance of creating inclusive spaces for all."

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