THE introduction of Oxford’s very own ‘Boris Bike’ cycle hire scheme must be welcome news to the hundreds of people who work in Headington.

It provides a quick, easy and free way for doctors and other hospital staff to travel between hospital sites and for other commuters to travel to work.

It’s also an environmentally-friendly way to travel, with the bikes’ impressive GPS system run by solar power.

And anything that could ease congestion in an already busy area has to be a good thing.

The scheme could help not only those connected with Headington, but it is clearly something that would be popular in the city centre and other urban areas in the county.

Especially as it would offer free use for 30 minutes – something that will probably make people think twice about jumping in their cars.

For a city known for cycling, it may only be a matter of time before it is expanded.

Let’s hope the funding is there if the hire scheme proves popular.