A CYCLE company is inviting frontline staff in Bournemouth and Poole to use their bikes for free following council funding.

It comes as Beryl and BCP Council announced plans to further assist key travel for frontline staff during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Health service workers are already able to access the scheme by signing up to the Beryl App with their NHS email address.

This will automatically provide them free use for all bay-to-bay rides in the Bournemouth and Poole service area.

But BCP Council has now provided additional funding to enable wider key workers to have access to Beryl Bikes.

Councillor Andy Hadley, Cabinet Member for Transport and Infrastructure at BCP Council, said: “The free use of the Beryl Bikes has been well-received by staff at the NHS.

"Facilitated through funding delivered by the council, I’m delighted that we can now extend this offer to include other key workers across the conurbation who are fulfilling essential roles, including those in the social care sector, during these challenging times.’’

Those using Beryl Bikes to transport themselves between home and work are encouraged to wash their hands immediately before and after use, stay two metres away from others whilst cycling and not to ride in groups.

Bournemouth and Poole residents can contact Beryl at support@beryl.cc with details of their role and requirements.