Bedford Hospital Charity and Friends has helped make life better for one of the hospital’s A&E nurses after her bike was stolen.
The bike was stolen a few weeks ago, while Elaine Gillard was on a night shift at Bedford Hosptial.
“Bedfordshire Police got to hear about this and immediately considered how they could help,” explained Debbie Inskip or Bedford Hosptial and Friends Charity.
PC Rich Dawson of the Crime Investigation Team at Beds Police said, “I knew we had lots of bikes that we’d recovered, so we got in touch with the charity to see if any frontline workers needed a bike.”
The police have now donated 25 bikes to the charity, which will be given a free service by Flamme Rouge on Bromham Road.
“I would like to thank Bedford Hospital Charity & Friends, Bedfordshire Police and Flamme Rouge for all their efforts in securing a replacement bike for me,” said Elaine.
“It was such a lovely surprise when I was contacted by Debbie to say I would receive the first bike and I’m very grateful for everybody involved and looking forward to cycling again.”
“Throughout the lockdown we’ve been offering a free bike service to all key workers,” said Jamie Quiggan of Flamme Rouge.
“As each of these donated bikes is allocated to hospital staff, we’ll give the bike a service to ensure it’s fully safe to ride.”
“We were over the moon to be able to help out various staff who had had bike issues,” said Debbie.
On Tuesday, Elaine was presented with her new bike by Debbie Inskip, PC Dawson and Sergeant Vicky Stoughton from Beds Police property store.
“Smiles all round after a great community achievement to donate the first bike,” said Debbie. “There are many more to give out, so big thanks to all involved.”