London hire bikes named after inspirational women cyclists for International Women's Day

"The Mayor and I want cycling to be an option for everyone in London, but women and girls unfortunately still face barriers that can prevent them from riding - from safety concerns to costs and confidence - all of which we're working with TfL to address."

"Annahita Benbow - Founder of Northwest Pedal Express in Brent, recognised for leading weekly bike buses that help children travel to school safely and confidently."

"Tessie Reynolds - Pioneering historical trailblazer who rode from Brighton to London and back in 1893, aged just 16, breaking the record at a time when women weren't even recognised as cyclists."

Transport for London selected ten women cyclists to have hire bikes named after them for International Women's Day. The selection came from over 150 public nominations and included nine contemporary "unsung heroes" and one historical figure. The honorees represent diverse contributions to cycling: Annahita Benbow leads bike buses for school children, Carol Summers inspires female paramedics through the Cycle Response Unit, Emily Chappell promotes cycling as adventure for women, Harjit Kaur Lakhan increases cycling access for disadvantaged women, Jean Dollimore campaigns for cycling infrastructure, Dr Jenny Drife leads homeless outreach, Naomi Rumble empowers Black women cyclists, Samra Said leads Cycle Sisters, Terry Clarke leads community cycling groups, and Tessie Reynolds pioneered women's long-distance cycling in 1893. The initiative addresses barriers women face in cycling including safety concerns, costs, and confidence.

Read at ianVisits