Train staff have been collecting abandoned bikes outside their stations in order to refurbish and gift them to NHS staff.

Thameslink has donated six bikes that have either been unclaimed or left at stations across its network.

St Albans District Council commissioned a specialist cycle mechanic to restore the bikes to safe and roadworthy condition.

A prize draw has now been arranged with West Hertfordshire Hospitals NHS Trust for staff and six winners will each be given a bike.

Managing director for Thameslink and Great Northern, Tom Moran said: "It's fantastic working with our partners to support Hertfordshire hospital staff at this challenging time.

"As key workers ourselves, we're proud to be supporting NHS staff in the communities we serve.

"And at a time of great national challenge, we are proud to help keep Britain moving safely."

The project follows suit from a successful scheme run by Thameslink and Luton Council that renovated abandoned bikes for health care professional in Bedfordshire.

Leader of St Albans District Council, Cllr Chris White said: "This is an excellent initiative that I am pleased the council is involved with along with our partners.

"It is very much in keeping with our priorities of encouraging people to use green transport to reduce harmful emissions and to exercise.

"It's also a marvellous way for us to thank local NHS staff for all they have done to protect our community from the coronavirus pandemic."