Key workers across the UK can now find cycle-related offers and locate bike stores which are open in the local area, through a live online map which has been launched.

Sustrans created the map to make cycling easier for key workers as they travel to and from work each day during Covid-19.

About 40 per cent of the UK workforce is classed by the UK Government as key workers, including NHS employees, cleaners, carers and supermarket workers.

Following the UK-wide lockdown announced by the Government last month, bicycle shops were one of the few retailers listed to remain open, if they wish to, to ensure transport for key workers and last-mile deliveries can be maintained.

Since the outbreak of Covid-19, the cycling industry has come together to provide assistance and offers on bicycles and services to key workers to say thank you for their invaluable work in these difficult times.

Susie Dunham, development director at Sustrans, whose husband works for the NHS, said: “In the Covid-19 crisis, cycling is critical for many key workers to get to and from work each day.

“The online map was created with the needs of key workers 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 map displays four different types of pins for each kind of offer, including, access to a bike, repairs and maintenance, equipment and gear and bike stores that remain open across the UK.

To access the online map, go to www.sustrans.org.uk