TfL’s ‘Boris Bikes’ Reimagined: Celebrating Inspirational Women Cyclists

Transport for London (TfL) has renamed ten of its Santander-sponsored hire bikes in honor of ten inspirational women cyclists, marking International Women’s Day. The initiative aims to promote cycling and address barriers that prevent women and girls from participating, such as safety concerns and a lack of representation.

Recognizing Cycling Pioneers and Contemporary Heroes

The selection process involved over 150 public nominations, with a judging panel from City Hall, TfL, and Santander choosing nine contemporary “unsung heroes” and one historical pioneer. The women recognized have made significant contributions to cycling, from promoting safety and inclusivity to breaking records and inspiring others.

The Honorees

• Annahita Benbow: Founder of Northwest Pedal Express in Brent, recognized for leading weekly bike buses that help children travel to school safely and confidently. TfL
• Carol Summers: A London Ambulance Service cycle paramedic of more than 20 years and Cycle Response Unit leader, honored for inspiring confidence in female paramedics to cycle and responding to 999 calls by bike.
• Emily Chappell: Ultracyclist, courier, and author, celebrated for inspiring women and girls to observe cycling as a route to adventure and confidence.
• Harjit Kaur Lakhan: Sikh Cycling Club leader, honored for helping women (particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds) to access cycling.
• Jean Dollimore: Camden cycling campaigner for more than two decades.
• Dr. Jenny Drife: Consultant Psychiatrist leading the START Homeless Mental Health Outreach Team.
• Naomi Rumble: Director of Together We Ride (TWR), recognized for empowering women (especially Black women) to embrace cycling joyfully and confidently.
• Samra Said: Chair and Ride Leader of Cycle Sisters, who received the highest number of nominations.
• Terry Clarke: U3A cycling group leader.
• Tessie Reynolds: A pioneering historical trailblazer who rode from London to Brighton and back in 1893, aged just 16, breaking the record at a time when women weren’t even recognized as cyclists. TfL

Addressing Cycling Barriers and Improving Infrastructure

London’s Walking and Cycling Commissioner, Will Norman, emphasized the importance of making cycling accessible to everyone, stating that women and girls often face barriers to participation. TfL is working to address these barriers through safety improvements and increased representation of female cyclists. TfL

A major safety transformation of Lambeth bridge – a location where cyclist Moira Gemmill was killed by a HGV over a decade ago – is due to be completed next month.

Annahita Benbow highlighted the importance of building awareness of safe routes, stating, “The more of us that are cycling, the infrastructure will build up.” inkl

Carol Summers noted that access to bicycles can be a barrier for some, and schemes like the TfL hire scheme provide opportunities for those without personal bikes.

Looking Ahead

This campaign to celebrate inspirational women in cycling is seen as an important step in encouraging more people to embrace active travel and contribute to a greener, fairer, and better London. TfL