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Cyclists unite to form 'bike Tubes' at five stations
Anna Davis, Education Correspondent10 Jun 2009
Groups of commuters gathered at five stations across the capital to cycle to work together.
They spoke of their determination not to let striking Tube drivers stop them from getting to work.
The groups were organised by the London Cycling Campaign, which urged commuters to "bike the strike" instead of taking to their cars or staying at home.
Around 15 cyclists set off from Ravenscourt Park Tube station at 8am heading for Trafalgar Square via Hammersmith, Kensington High Street, Hyde Park Corner and Charing Cross. Other groups cycled into the city from Brixton, Finsbury Park, Mile End and Swiss Cottage.
Joanna Sealy, a 34-year-old banker, cycled to work in Trafalgar Square for the first time. She said: "I normally take the Tube from Ravenscourt Park but I was forced to cycle today because there was no question of me not getting to work. Everyone is determined to get in. "
Sarah Litchfield, a 25-year-old office worker cycled to Monument. She said: "I thought the buses would be chaotic today and it would be quicker for me to take the bike. I am quite anxious because I don't know how long it will take me and I don't normally cycle. We were all told at work yesterday that we had to come in today no matter what."
Siobhan Hennelly, a 37-year-old business consultant, cycled from Hammersmith to St Paul's, also for the first time. She said: "I've always thought about cycling because I want to get fitter and I bought a bike two weeks ago but I had never got round to actually doing it until today. I am worried about going on the road so I'm glad I am getting the chance to go with the group."
Cassandra Grasso, a 28-year-old executive assistant cycling to Cambridge Circus, said: "I cycle every day but because of the Tube strike I thought the roads would be even more busy so I joined this group to get some safety in numbers."
