THE success of a Yorkshire fleet of paramedics that introduced bicycles instead of vehicles has grown over the past six months, with the recruitment of new cyclists and an extension of working hours.

Life Cycle, which is operated by Tees, East and North Yorkshire Ambulance Service (TENYAS), extended the number of hours cyclists are on the road from eight hours a day, five days a week to 12 hours a day, seven days a week, following the achievements of the scheme.

The service, which provides emergency medical cover in the centre of York, has also now recruited two new cyclists, including the first female ambulance cyclist outside of London.

Life Cycle paramedic, Mark Inman, said: 'The new recruits make up a team of six cycling paramedics and ambulance technicians on the streets of York. This will ensure we can maintain the cover 12 hours a day, seven days a week.'

Cycle recruits joining TENYAS have to complete 16 hours of training which includes fitness, Highway Code, roadside repairs and safety instruction.

Since the scheme launched in 2001, the cyclists have dealt with about 2,000 emergencies with the majority being reached within two minutes and ahead of an ambulance.

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