Kingston Hospital Charity is encouraging hospital staff to get out of their cars and onto their bikes by funding the construction of a second secure cycle shed which will enable 50 staff bicycles to be stored in a locked unit on the Kingston Hospital site.

The new facility will add to the existing covered and secure areas where staff can store their bicycles bringing the total number of locked spaces to more than 150.

The unit which cost £35,000 and was supported by an £11,000 contribution from a number of Surrey cycle clubs who joined forces early last year to take on the Ride for 75, a fundraising cycle challenge that also celebrated the 75th birthday of the NHS.

Our thanks to all the cyclists from Kingston Wheelers CC, Epsom CC, Kingston Junior CC, Kingston Wheelers CC, New Malden Velo, Surrey CC, Velosport CC and Waldy Wheelers who took part.

Chief Finance Officer, Yarlini Roberts, who leads on sustainability at Kingston and Richmond NHS Foundation Trust, said: "The new cycle unit is a very welcome addition to the existing secure storage spaces for staff bicycles at the hospital. We have placed sustainability and the promotion of wellbeing at the heart of our Trust’s ten-year strategy, so we are hugely grateful to Kingston Hospital Charity, the Kingston Wheelers and other local clubs for funding such an important staff facility which promotes, fitness, wellbeing, and a greener and more cost-effective way for staff to get to work.”   

Communications Manager, Ali Mee, who cycles between both Kingston and Richmond NHS Foundation Trust sites had her bicycle stolen from an open bike rack at the hospital in August.  

Ali says: “I love cycling to work and was so upset when my bike was stolen. Knowing there is an additional locked unit where I can safely store my bike is very reassuring.  We work in such a beautiful area with wonderful cycle paths along the roads and river.  I hope the new facility will encourage more staff who live locally to get out of their cars and cycle to work.”