A NEW map has been created to help key workers find a bike shop.

Walking and cycling charity Sustrans has created the interactive map showing four different types of facility – access to a bike, repairs and maintenance, equipment and gear, and for bike stores that remain open across the UK.

Bike shops were one of the few non-food or medicine shops to be allowed open under the lockdown rules, to ensure transport for key workers and deliveries.

Sustrans’ director for the south of England James Cleeton said: “Cycling is critical for many key workers to get to and from work each day. The online map was created with their needs in mind and we hope it will prove useful for everyone needing to cycle to work, be it an experienced commuter who may need a spare part or a novice who needs access to a cycle.

“An average commute is five miles – a distance that can be easily cycled in less than 30 minutes. It’s fantastic to see how the cycling industry has come together to support the people who are working so hard to get us through this crisis.”

The initiative is supported by the transport sector and the Department for Transport.

Walking and Cycling minister Chris Heaton-Harris, who said: “Many people who cannot work from home cycle to and from work, and it’s important we do everything we can to make their journeys easy, so they can concentrate on their essential jobs.

“Cycles for Key Workers is a great initiative which will help people find nearby cycle shops, bikes and equipment - as well as money-saving deals – so they’re able to travel during these unprecedented times.”

Key workers who want to find out about cycling related offers or need access to a bike to get to work during the pandemic should visit Cycles for Key Workers at www.sustrans.org.uk/keyworkers

Shops and organisations which have an offer for key workers or are open and not listed on the map, can visit www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/cycleoffers