London Names Santander Bikes After Inspiring Female Cyclists for International Women’s Day

To mark International Women’s Day, Transport for London (TfL) and Santander Cycles have introduced a special tribute by naming 10 public hire bikes after inspirational female cyclists. The initiative celebrates women who have made meaningful contributions to cycling and community leadership across London.

More than 150 nominations were submitted by London residents, highlighting women who have inspired others through cycling, community work, and advocacy for safer streets.

Celebrating Women Who Transform Cycling Communities

Many of the selected names belong to women who have worked at the grassroots level to make cycling more inclusive and accessible. Their efforts range from building community networks to promoting safe cycling infrastructure.

One of the most recognised figures is Samra Said, who received the highest number of public nominations. She leads the organisation Cycle Sisters, a group that encourages Muslim women to take up cycling.

Said said the recognition represents the collective spirit of women who ride together and support each other.

Growing a Community of Women Cyclists

Under Said’s leadership, the Cycle Sisters network has expanded significantly and now includes more than 2,200 riders.

She said the initiative helps create welcoming spaces where Muslim and ethnically diverse women can cycle freely, improve their health, and build supportive communities.

Efforts to Reduce the Gender Gap in Cycling

Sadiq Khan, the Mayor of London, and Transport for London acknowledged that a noticeable gender gap still exists in cycling participation.

They emphasised their commitment to addressing barriers that discourage women from cycling, including safety concerns, affordability, and limited access to cycling infrastructure.

Ten Women Honoured for Their Impact

A judging panel from City Hall, TfL, and Santander selected the 10 names featured in the project. Nine of the honourees are recognised as modern-day community leaders, while one is celebrated as a historical pioneer.

Community Leaders and Modern Cycling Advocates

Among the honourees is Annahita Benbow, founder of Northwest Pedal Express in Brent. She is known for organising weekly “bike buses,” which allow children to travel safely to school in groups.

Carol Summers, a paramedic with the London Ambulance Service for more than two decades, was also recognised. She has inspired many colleagues to use bicycles when responding to emergency 999 calls.

Other women honoured include:

• Emily Chappell — ultracyclist, courier, and author

• Harjit Kaur Lakhan — leader of a Sikh cycling club

• Jean Dollimore — cycling campaigner from Camden

• Jenny Drife — a psychiatrist who cycles daily across Lambeth and Southwark to reach rough sleepers in parks

• Naomi Rumble — director of Together We Ride

• Terry Clarke — cycling leader for U3A

Honouring a Historical Pioneer

The tenth bike has been named after Tessie Reynolds, a cycling pioneer who set a remarkable record in 1893. She completed a ride from Brighton to London and back in just eight hours and 30 minutes at a time when women were rarely recognised as competitive cyclists.

Encouraging More Women to Ride

Judge Helen Cansick expressed hope that featuring these names on Santander Cycles will inspire more women and girls to experience the benefits and enjoyment of cycling.

Cycling in London Continues to Grow

According to national cycling data, men currently make nearly three times as many cycling trips each year as women.

To address this imbalance, TfL has introduced programmes such as the Cycling Action Plan and the Equity in Motion strategy. These initiatives aim to make cycling safer, more inclusive, and easier to access.

Investment in Safer Cycling Infrastructure

Transport authorities are investing in several projects designed to support more women cyclists, including:

• Community cycling programmes

• Projects supporting ethnically diverse and socially isolated women

• Initiatives assisting women in the criminal justice system

• New cycle lanes and safer road junctions

These investments aim to remove barriers that prevent many women from cycling regularly.

A Rapid Rise in Cycling Across London

Cycling activity in London has grown significantly in recent years. Since 2019, the number of cycling trips has increased by about 43 percent.

Today, an estimated 1.5 million cycling journeys take place across the city every day.

Recognition for Women Driving Change

Sonya Byers, CEO of Women in Transport, praised the initiative and the women honoured.

She said celebrating these cyclists highlights the importance of representation and shows how leadership, determination, and community work can transform cycling culture across the city.