NHS WORKERS have been hit hard by bicycle thefts during the pandemic, however an East Lancashire firm is helping find a solution.

Recent reports, collated by Nelson-based Pendle Bike Racks, have show that frontline staff have often been dismayed to finish their long shifts on hospital wards only to find that their transport home has been stolen.

This has occurred in various locations throughout the country, in Lancashire and further afield from Nottingham to Chichester to Plymouth, with Pendle Bike Racks CEO Chris Smith now deciding to do something about to address the problem.

He said: “Heartless thieves have been capitalising on the fact that shift-work means NHS workers’ bikes are left unattended for long periods of time.

"It’s awful that these people are giving so much to society and yet are being robbed of their transport to and from work.

“Cycling is such a healthy way to commute and obviously exercise has stress relieving benefits.

"Forcing these amazing people to drive or take public transport and forgo the benefits of exercise is appalling."

As such the Nelson company, which manufactures bicycle racks, trailers and accessories and has been a fixture of the local business scene since opening in 1988, hopes that it's products will keep bicyles safe and has announced that it will be taking part in the Blue Light Card discount scheme.

The scheme offers savings to all NHS, social care, emergency services and other key workers.

Mr Smith hopes that this will mitigate the impact of thefts, will show key workers that they are valued and will display the company's support for frontline staff.

He said: "I’m glad that the cycling community is coming together to help turn the tide against these crimes, with companies and charities offering bike donations and bike servicing for key workers up and down the country.

"We’re just glad to be able to do our bit.”

To find out more about Pendle Bike Racks, go to: www.pbr.co.uk.